Michigan gambling fans are probably wondering which laws affect their wagering options. The legal language can be dense and nonsensical at times, causing some people to walk away confused about what is allowable. Most of the gambling laws in Michigan are dated and seem like gibberish to non-professionals.
In this guide, we will demystify what these Michigan gambling laws say, and restate the definitions in an easy-to-read way. After reading this, Michigan residents will know exactly what legal gambling options are pursuable, and even where to find legal gambling sites for Michigan residents.
Michigan state gambling laws are quite lenient compared to many other states. We will excavate certain sections that pertain to the average gambler, and explain them in detail. After reading this section, you should be well aware of the regulations that Michigan has in place for gambling.
Casino gaming is authorized to the extent that it is conducted in accordance with act 432.203 heading 5 - This section reflects the state’s legal allowance of federal/state sanctioned Indian casinos. Many casinos in Michigan operate on Indian land and are therefore legal. These casinos are great for land-based action and are open to anyone over 21. The online gambling sites offer better incentives, gambling options, and limits.
432.218 - This section bans criminal gambling operations. Many nefarious elements attempt to set up gambling rings in towns all across America, and this criminalizes the operators of such businesses. It is best to stay away from underground poker rooms, bookies, or any other illegal gambling enterprise.
432.218 (2)(a) - This section further limits illegal gambling activity by criminalizing the lending/selling/buying of money or gambling devices. Many illegal gambling operations procure their funding and equipment from nefarious sources. This law criminalizes those sources.
432.218 (2)(ii) - This section benefits all gamblers in that it criminalizes cheating. Many states do not have specific language protecting bettors, but Michigan keeps you close to its heart. Cheating is considered as “using a gambling device”, which carries felony charges.
Look Up All The Gambling Laws In Michigan - Click Here
The most important thing to understand about all federal gambling laws that simply cannot be overstated is that none of them target the players, only the facilitators of gambling. No matter how harsh the language sounds, there are not laws that can punish a mere participant in online gambling.
Wire Act – The first major law put in place to regulate gambling was the Wire Act of 1961. In the early-to-mid 20th century, organized crime had a strong foothold in the gambling industry. In order to limit criminal activity, congress passed the Wire Act. The Act criminalizes the use of wire communication devices involved with gambling. Many criminals, to transfer money, rig bets, and steal, used these devices. The Wire Act effectively dismantled much or the organized crime that pervaded the gambling business.
PASPA – The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992 directly targets sports betting. Congress saw sports betting as a “national problem”, and passed the PASPA to criminalize the operation of sports betting establishments in most of America. The only states that allow sports betting are Delaware, Montana, Nevada, and Oregon. The only option for most sports fans in the states are the online sportsbooks that operate overseas. These sites are safe, secure, and respected. They also offer faster lines and more betting options than any of the land-based competition.
UIGEA – In the early 2000’s, online gambling was booming in America. As technology got faster and more robust, the gambling industry followed suit. With so much opportunity, it was only a matter of time before illegal gambling sites started popping up and spreading like bamboo. The federal government passed the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) in 2006 in order to stifle these illegal rackets. The laws were harsh and effectively banned all online gambling sites from functioning in the US. There are now overseas gambling sites that millions of Americans use every day, and these are the only places to get in on some legal gambling action.
The gambling age in Michigan is 18, but many of the casinos require you to be 21. Most of the online gambling sites require you to be 18. Always make sure to check when signing up at legal Michigan gambling sites, and go with the higher number every time.
As you can see, Michigan has its citizens in mind when it comes to gambling. There are strict laws in place for illegal operators, racketeers, and cheaters. Michigan wants to keep the average gambler safe while offering many legal wagering opportunities. The best action is on the internet. These gambling sites offer unparalleled gaming options, bonuses, and ways to wager on anything you can imagine. Whether you decide to explore the land-based casinos, online gambling sites, or both, you can have a great time in the state without worrying too much about the Michigan gambling laws.
See More: Online Casinos - Online Sportsbooks - Poker Sites