The Michigan online gambling bill from Rep. Brandt Iden (pictured) is on the move in Lansing. Iden’s bill (H 4311) was up for its second hearing before the House Regulatory Reform Committee on Tuesday, culminating in a 13-1 vote recommending passage.
Online gambling is just one component of a package of proposed MI gaming legislation, which also includes daily fantasy sports. the bill had been on file for more than a year, it was still many steps away from the finish line when lawmakers convened for their final day of session.
This year, though, anything less than passage would be a disappointment. Stakeholders have come on board in earnest, and tribal support is a keystone for this piece of legislation.
It looks like the tax rate is fixed, too. While this bill worked through the process last year, the proposed rate was reduced twice in an effort to get casinos on board. Lawmakers eventually settled on a rate of 8 percent, plus another 1.25 percent from commercial operators in Detroit. As introduced, this year’s bill includes that same tax structure.
