The Michigan Gaming Control Board and the Michigan Liquor Control Commission will launch a statewide public outreach and enforcement campaign to persuade establishments to remove unlicensed gaming equipment. 

As a result of the collaboration, the two-state authorities believe that increased awareness of illegal gambling and its consequences would help to curb activity in the region.

Fight vs. Unlicensed Gaming Equipment

“Illegal gaming can lead to other, more serious crimes that jeopardize community safety in Michigan,” said Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB. Citizens who utilize these unregulated devices also have few options if they believe they have been duped. They cannot make a formal complaint against an unregulated operator and request a review by our agency, as they may while playing in licensed, legal gambling.”

“The two groups will educate businesses and the broader public about what is and is not allowed in Michigan, in an effort to combat misleading information that the public and businesses receive about unregulated devices used for illegal gambling.”

“Liquor licensees who permit unlawful gambling and neglect to remove gambling devices from their establishments may face violations from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission,” said Pat Gagliardi, chair of the MLCC.

“The Commission considers illegal gambling a serious infraction, and consequences for a violation may include fines, suspension or revocation of a liquor license. Liquor licensees are encouraged to engage in only legal gambling in order to comply with the Commission’s laws and regulations.Michigan law outlaws all forms of gambling save those expressly authorized by the state, such as slot machines operated within licensed casinos.”

“The laws authorizing and regulating gaming in the state of Michigan safeguard consumers who wish to gamble,” stated Attorney General Dana Nessel. My agency is prepared to support the Michigan Liquor Control Commission and Michigan Gaming Control Board in this critical enforcement initiative.

“We will not hesitate to hold individuals accountable if they fail to take advantage of this voluntary removal option for unlawful gambling machines.”