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As we approach the final three months of 2019, the window of opportunity for implementing new legislation becomes narrower. This is particularly significant for a proposed iGaming bill in Michigan.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s perceived lack of support for the bill presents a significant challenge, whether it is based on reality or not. Unfortunately, the bill’s sponsor does not anticipate overcoming this obstacle in the current year.
Rep. Brandt Iden’s latest on the Michigan iGaming bill
Rep. Brandt Iden, known to Michigan residents for his work towards legalizing sports betting in the state, is also responsible for introducing HB 4311. This proposed legislation aims to expand online gambling in Michigan by including slots and table games in the legal framework.
Although Iden is advocating for separate bills on internet gaming and sports betting, he is actively promoting them both simultaneously. During a recent interview, he shared his perspective on the matter.
Iden expressed his view on the bills, stating, “In my perspective, these bills are interconnected and should be considered collectively. The internet gaming bill holds the same level of significance for me as it has always had. I firmly believe that these bills are interconnected and will continue to push for their progression in that manner. However, this alternative does offer another option, in my opinion. We have previously received support from individuals who have publicly endorsed this issue. The support remains intact. I am confident that we still have the necessary votes and backing in the Senate. There have been no changes in this regard. We retain the same level of votes and support that we have always had.”
Iden introduced a new approach by proposing separate bills for iGaming and sports betting. He had previously sponsored a comprehensive gambling expansion bill in 2018, which made its way to then-Governor Rick Snyder but was ultimately vetoed.
Iden’s confidence in the Legislature is unwavering, but it diminishes when considering the next steps. To address his concerns about Whitmer’s support, Iden intends to retain the bills within the House Ways and Means Committee until his doubts are alleviated.
Whitmer seems unwilling to compromise on iGaming
Iden revealed that he hasn’t been in touch with Whitmer for several months ever since her office shared a list of concerns regarding his bill. The absence of communication on this matter has now extended to nearly six months.
Whitmer faced challenges primarily related to concerns over the tax rate and the potential negative impact of iGaming on the Michigan online lottery and brick-and-mortar casinos. She advocates for a higher tax rate and the continued prohibition of online slots.
Whitmer’s latest remarks regarding gambling suggest that she is still seeking Iden’s bills to align with her preferences, but she remains willing to engage in dialogue.
The financial consequences of this legislation are worrisome, but we are willing to engage in further conversation. Initially, we provided recommendations for a preliminary version of the bill and expected to have a chance to evaluate an updated version before its release. Regrettably, that did not occur. Our concerns about the bill’s impact on the School Aid Fund’s revenue persist.
Iden expressed his willingness to increase the tax rate, but not to the extent proposed by Whitmer. However, excluding slots from the bill would be counterproductive to its intended purpose.
Adding to the predicament is the recent dispute concerning the state’s budget, which compelled Whitmer, a Democrat, to exercise her line-item veto authority. Shortly before a deadline, Whitmer eliminated nearly a billion dollars’ worth of specific provisions from the budget that had been passed by the Republican-controlled Legislature.
Due to the limited time remaining before the Legislature adjourns for the year, and the significant differences between Iden and Whitmer, it is improbable that the people living in or visiting the Wolverine State will witness any modifications to the legislation concerning online slots and table games this year. Nevertheless, Iden remains determined to pursue this matter, which may lead to a more favorable outcome in early 2020.
