Michigan Gaming Control Board Executive Director Henry Williams (second from left in photo) recently participated in a panel discussion with regulators from around the world at the International Gaming Law Masters 2024 Spring Conference in Tampa, Florida. Photo provided by IMGL)
DETROIT, April 17, 2024 — At the recent International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL) 2024 Spring Conference held in the Tampa Bay area, Michigan’s top gaming regulator announced its commitment to dismantling domestic and foreign illegal gaming operations. has made the state’s approach very clear.
Last Friday, April 12, Henry Williams, executive director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board, spoke on behalf of the United States on a panel discussion moderated by Lou Trombetta, executive director of the Florida Gaming Control Board. and participated in a conversation centered on the need to balance reality. game industry. His participation in the IMGL conference highlighted his commitment to adhering to Michigan gaming law regulations and ensuring a fair and ethical gaming environment.
Mr. Williams reiterated the need to combat illegal gaming operations globally by actively engaging with global regulators and advocating for stronger regulatory measures, and reiterated the need for Michigan to protect the health of the gaming industry. shared how it plays a role.
“When people choose to ignore the law and not do what is lawful, we will seek them out and hold them accountable for their actions.” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams Said. “In Michigan, the Michigan Gaming Control Commission has made it our top priority to protect our citizens from illegal gambling market operators and to do everything we can to protect our legal gaming industry from the taint of illegal gambling operators. We have a zero-tolerance policy against illegal gaming activities.
In 2023, as a result of the MGCB’s investigation and cooperation with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, 79 machines used for illegal gambling were seized, nine people were convicted of gambling offenses, and 24 people were charged with illegal gambling offenses. He was indicted.
In addition to highlighting the importance of a regulatory framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and compliance in the gaming sector, Mr. Williams also emphasized the need for cooperation among global stakeholders to combat the growing threat of offshore illegal gaming operations. He also emphasized the importance of Other speakers who took part in the panel discussion were from Malta, Belgium, Canada, and the Eastern European country of Georgia. They jointly shared their views based on their experience within their respective jurisdictions, with a particular focus on modern communications and technology, which continue to present different regulatory challenges than land-based casino gaming.
MGCB announced earlier this year that an investigation revealed that three online gaming companies (two in the U.S. and one overseas) were offering online games in Michigan without obtaining the appropriate legal licenses. , sent a cease and desist order.
MGCB encourages the public to report suspected illegal gambling by contacting authorities at 1-888-314-2682 or by sending a message to MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov.
Gambling in any form is for entertainment purposes only. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please contact the National Gambling Problem Helpline. We offer hope and help without prejudice or shame.phone 1-800-Gamblertext 800GAM or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 and the secrets are free. Michigan residents can also visit. Responsible Gaming page on the MGCB website For information on self-exclusion programs such as the No Interested Persons List and the Responsible Gaming Database for Internet Gaming and Sports Betting, please visit DontRegretTheBet.org Additional tools to play games responsibly.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure fair and honest gaming practices to protect the interests of Michigan residents.Learn more about Michigan State Government/MGCB.
