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PTLegal Michigan Online Poker Sites
Unfortunately, most MI gambling laws and regulations haven’t been updated since 1873, in this guide find out the Legality of Online Poker in Michigan
Michigan has always been known as a pro-gambling state. This is why it is one of the few US states where nearly all kinds of gambling are permitted. This includes sports betting, online casino, lottery, pari-mutuel, tribal and commercial casinos, charitable gambling, and real-money poker. Since online gambling is regulated, players have plenty of options for online poker in Michigan.
Is Online Poker Legal in Michigan?
Although Michiganders now enjoy both land-based and online poker options, the road to getting there was not easy. The first efforts started back in 2017 when Senator Mike Kowall introduced an online poker bill. However, the bill died despite being approved by the Senate and the House.
In 2018, Senator Mike Kowall and State Representative Brandt Iden tried to bring back two of their bills called the Lawful Internet Gaming Act — SB 203 and HB 4926. The latter passed the Senate and the House floor in the summer of 2018. At the end of the year, Governor Rick Snyder vetoed the bill due to his concern that online gambling would adversely affect the land-based gambling industry.
However, Iden was persistent and tried to introduce another Lawful Internet Gaming Act (HB 4311) in 2019. This was the reiterated bill from 2018. Despite encountering obstacles, the new Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed it on December 20, 2019.
Upon passing the LIGA, which regulated online poker, the three Detroit-based casinos and 23 tribal casinos scattered across the country could apply for licenses to operate online poker and casino games.
Poker Laws
Before visiting your favorite land-based casino, you should be aware that the legal age for poker in Michigan varies. For instance, commercial casinos in Detroit require players to be 21, while most tribal ones welcome players 18 and above. Some of them, like Manistique and Hessel, apply an over 19 policy.
Another essential thing before paying a visit to any of these land-based establishments or staying at home to play online poker, you should be well-informed about the following laws:
- Michigan Penal Code, Chapter 750, Gambling
- Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, Chapter 432
- Lawful Internet Gaming Act
- Indian Gaming Regulatory Act
- Tribal-State Compacts in Michigan
Best Legal Poker Rooms in Michigan
Thanks to lenient gambling laws, Michiganders have multiple poker options. Let’s take a look at brick-and-mortar and online variants.
Legal Online Poker in Michigan
By signing HB 4311 (Lawful Internet Gaming Act), Michigan became the sixth state to legalize online poker. However, the online version of this casino classic was not available right from the start. This was because licensing, and regulatory frameworks had to be created first. According to the bill, only those gambling sites that partner with brick-and-mortar casinos and pay the application fee will receive a license for legal operation.
Fortunately, some top-tier software providers started offering their games to Michiganders, and many more are expected to come. Evolution Studios got the green light in the summer of 2021 from the Michigan Gaming Control Board and started offering live dealer titles. Another studio, operated by Playtech, is expecting its launch in the Great Lakes State.
However, multiple offshore gambling platforms offer their entertainment services and accept players from Michigan. They operate outside of the state borders, so the MGCB doesn’t have any control over them. Players will find more extensive poker options in these casinos. You can pick one from our list above and give it a try.
- 100% Legal & Licensed
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- Must be 18+ to participate.
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Legal Land-Based Poker in Michigan
The first brick-and-mortar casino opened in Michigan in 1993 on tribal land. Eventually, in 1996, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act allowed casinos to operate with a license outside Native American territories. Currently, there are three commercial and 23 tribal land-based establishments. Although the same regulatory framework does not consider tribal casinos as commercial ones, there is no difference in their games.
Many of them feature poker rooms with over two dozen tables. Players can enjoy No-Limit Texas Hold’em, Limit Texas Hold’em, and Omaha High-Low 8-or-Better with buy-ins starting with $1. And those with a competitive spirit are in a treat for poker tournaments that these casinos organize daily and weekly. The Firekeepers Hotel & Casino hosted the Mid-States Poker Tour several times.
How to Register at a Legal Online Poker Site in Michigan?
Whichever casino you choose from our list, you need to create an account. The entire process is a breeze, and you’ll register in no time if you follow our step-by-step guide:Choose A Poker Room
Pick a poker site from the list we supplied above. Click on the link, and it will lead you to its official website directly.Signup
Hit the Register or Sign-Up button.Input the necessary information, including your name, email, address, date of birth, and phone number. Don’t forget to set up a strong password.
Click on the link you received in your email. This step will verify your account.
Deposit & Play
Log into your account and go to the Cashier section.Select the payment method you prefer and transfer the desired amount of money to your account. This is usually an instant process.
Pick the poker game you like, and good luck!
Michigan Land-Based Casinos With Live Poker
Whether you head to a commercial or tribal brick-and-mortar casino in Michigan, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Aside from offering poker rooms with many poker tables, these establishments also have accommodation and dining options. Restaurants, spas, live music, and shopping places are just some of the amenities you’ll encounter there.
We’ve created a list of the top five land-based casinos that shouldn’t be missed:
- Greektown Casino Hotel — 555 E Lafayette Street, Detroit 48226
- MGM Grand Detroit — 1777 3rd Avenue, Detroit 48226
- Firekeepers Casino Hotel — 11177 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, 49014
- Bay Mills Resort & Casino — 11386 W Lakeshore Dr, Brimley, 49715
- MotorCity Casino Hotel — 2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit 48201
Other Resources
Final Thoughts
Michigan residents have no poker limitations since both land-based and online casinos are legal. You can choose to play it either in a virtual or a real poker room. Those who like the feeling of cards can opt for one of the 26 land-based casinos.
On the other hand, players who prefer the comfort of their chairs can pick and try their luck at any of the online poker sites we have recommended.
FAQ
Is online poker legal in Michigan?
Yes, it is. The Lawful Internet Gaming Act signed into law in 2019 fully legalized online casinos and online poker.
Can I win real money playing online poker?
Of course. You can try your luck playing poker games at one of the land-based establishments, online or offshore casinos, as they offer numerous variations of this game.
Are land-based casinos legal in Michigan?
Yes. The Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act of 1996 authorized the launching of land-based casinos.
What is the legal age for playing poker in Michigan?
The legal age for playing poker at brick-and-mortar casinos is 21.