Michigan generated $354 million in tax revenue from Internet gaming in 2023, eclipsing initial estimates of $30 million to $40 million. The online sites are operated by private and tribal casinos in Michigan. Most of that online gaming tax revenue goes to bolster the state’s roughly $20 billion school aid fund, which finances Michigan’s public schools.

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Caught off guard by the popularity of online gambling, Michigan is now scrambling to catch up on addiction research and services, said Marlene Warner, interim executive director of the Michigan Association of Problem Gambling.

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“It’s like they’re on their skis,” Warner told Bridge Michigan. “They want to figure out how to put a safety net in place. “It’s good news, but it’s a shame it hasn’t happened before.”

Michigan is one of six states (the others are New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Connecticut and Delaware) that allow residents to bet on poker, blackjack, slots and games. other games on their phone and computer, as well as betting on sports.

The same easy bets that fill the state’s bank accounts are inflaming problem gambling for thousands of Michigan residents, said Alia Lucas, program administrator for Gambling Disorder Prevention and Treatment Services at the Department of Health. and Michigan Social Services.

Online gambling “has actually had a significant impact on problem gambling in the state,” Lucas said.

Most who play do so in moderation as entertainment, Lucas said, but for some, having the game on hand leads to problems.