Caesars’ World Series of Poker approved for multi-state online poker launch in Michigan

The Michigan Gaming Control Board approved Caesars’ World Series of Poker for the launch of its multi-state online poker platform in the state. This move enables residents of Michigan to join in cross-state competitions and reinforces the agency’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and dynamic gaming industry.

Currently, three licensed operators and providers offer online poker in Michigan: MGM Grand Detroit with BetMGM, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians with World Series of Poker, and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians and provider PokerStars. PokerStars was approved to launch multi-state play on 1 January 2023.

“By offering seamless connectivity between players in Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada, the Board’s approval of Caesars’ platform establishes another opportunity for online poker collaboration and innovation,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. “Michigan citizens can anticipate a safe, secure gaming environment — in what will likely be a larger pool of online players — as they engage in World Series of Poker games across state borders in a responsible manner.”

American Wagering (Caesars) is the authorized platform provider for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. They submitted a Multi-State Poker Submission Form to the MGCB in late April, requesting the ability to share multi-state internet poker games between Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada pursuant to the Lawful Internet Gaming Act (LIGA) and Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). The MGCB has approved their request, authorizing Caesars to offer Texas Hold’em and Omaha internet poker games, along with variations of those games. Any new internet poker game(s) must be submitted to the MGCB for approval.

In May 2022, Michigan joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, allowing Michigan online poker players to join with players in other jurisdictions — Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, and West Virginia — where licensed operators are authorized to conduct multi-state poker. Prior to the state joining MSIGA, Michigan poker players could play online only against other players located throughout the state.