MGCB Clears DraftKings for Multi-State Poker in MI, NJ, PA

The Michigan Gaming Control Board approved DraftKings to offer multi-state online poker in Michigan, allowing the operator to pool players with New Jersey and Pennsylvania. DraftKings’ poker platform went live on July 8.

The MGCB reported DraftKings met the board’s regulatory requirements to participate in multi-state internet poker and authorized the operator to join the shared player network linking the three states. The review included the operator’s technical and security controls, consumer protections and its agreement with the Bay Mills Indian Community.

Henry Williams, MGCB executive director, noted in the board release: “This approval reflects the strength of our partnership with Bay Mills Indian Community and the thoroughness of our regulatory process. As Michigan’s multistate poker network continues to grow, we remain focused on ensuring every operator meets the same high bar for fairness, security, and player protection.”

Michigan joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, or MSIGA, in 2022. Other current MSIGA members are Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Connecticut considered joining but related legislation did not advance. Before Michigan joined MSIGA, online poker players in the state could only compete against opponents located within Michigan.

DraftKings’ entry increases options for players in the shared-liquidity network and adds another operator to the three-state pool. In June, another poker network powered by Playtech launched through an integrated product that also connects Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. DraftKings may seek approvals in other MSIGA jurisdictions, including Delaware, Nevada and West Virginia, to expand its pooled player base.

The MGCB approval coincided with DraftKings’ recent launches elsewhere. The company went live with online sportsbook and casino products in Alberta on July 13 after the province opened a regulated multi-operator market, and earlier this year it launched its sportsbook in Arkansas.

Under the MSIGA framework, regulators in each member state must clear operators before their players can be merged with other states’ pools. The MGCB’s sign-off permits DraftKings to integrate Michigan players with those in New Jersey and Pennsylvania under the compact’s rules, following its assessment of the operator’s systems and tribal partnership.