It’s been almost four years since Michigan legalized online gambling, and the results have been profound. Michigan is the sixth state in America to legalize online gambling, following in the footsteps of Nevada, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. So far, the move has proved a success for the economy of all of the states that have come before it, but is the same true for Michigan? We’re going to take a look at the impact that this move has had on the economy and what it could signal for the future of this sector within Michigan.
Job Creation From Bottom to Top
The most obvious boost to the state of Michigan has been the increased number of jobs thanks to a whole new sector opening up. Before this move, sites like Vegas Slots Online weren’t able to legally operate in Michigan, but now that they are, the biggest and best sites in the world of online casino are making their presence felt in the state. Whilst some operate mainly from other states or even other countries, there are several online gambling sites that have popped up specifically to cater to Michigan residents. This means it’s a huge benefit to have people from Michigan working for them, as these people have the ‘inside scoop’ on what Michigan residents want from a gaming site.
Within the world of job creation, this industry provides employment to those working in customer support, marketing, software development, and plenty more besides. This means that there are roles available from the bottom rung right up to the top of the pay ladder. This has already attracted talented workers from out of state, as well as helping those in need find secure employment with competitive pay. It goes without saying that people who are in work will contribute more to the economy than those who are without a job, so these jobs have been a real bonus to the state of Michigan.
Increase Protection For Consumers and Increased Revenue for the Tax Man
It goes without saying that just because something hasn’t been legalized, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. As we wrote about at iGaming.org, before the state of Michigan legalized online gambling, customers would still find ways to gamble online. This meant that not only were consumers often playing at sites with an interesting regard for the law, but they weren’t protected by their state. This meant that if they weren’t incredibly careful, they could end up falling victim to a scam and having nobody to turn to.
Since online gambling has been legalized, it’s possible to ensure safety and security standards for all online gambling sites operating in Michigan. All sites have to be properly regulated, provide security credentials, and adhere to the legal framework that has been put in place. This obviously makes gambling far safer for customers, but it has another bonus too.
Where previously customers were having to gamble at sites out of state, and therefore spend their money wherever their gambling site of choice was located, now they can gamble legally within their state. This means that the government can collect taxes from sites operating within their state. These taxes are based on the revenue of companies, meaning that the state receives significant tax contributions from these casinos. Of course, the more taxes the government receives, the more they have to spend on improving life for the public.
Introducing New Tourism Avenues
Gambling in land-based casinos has been legal in Michigan since 1997 and as such, already many people come to Michigan to enjoy playing in casinos, or betting at the sports track. Whilst online gambling won’t have such a large pull as some of Michigan’s largest hotels, such as the Grand Hotel Mackinac, it could still bolster tourism industry. For example, people from neighbouring states might rent a room in Michigan for a weekend to participate in an online poker tournament. Alternatively, people could already be looking for a gaming holiday destination and see the legalization of online gambling in Michigan as a bonus. Whilst the direct impact on tourism might be small, there could be a snowball effect that’s more difficult to see.
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