LANSING – If everything goes as hoped, Michigan casinos will be able to start offering sports betting and Internet gaming by the men’s college basketball tournament in March, according to Rep. Brandt Iden (R-Oshtemo Twp.).

The shepherd for the gaming expansion package in the House, Iden said he’s hopeful the Gaming Control Board will be able to promulgate the rules needed within the next 60 to 90 days to let casinos like MGM Grand in Detroit roll out the new offerings.

The 10-bill package to update and revamp Michigan’s gambling laws passed the Senate Wednesday, received House concurrence and were shipped to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for her expected signature.

Based on his prior research into the topic, Iden estimated the new gaming options would bring in $100 million additional for schools a year. The sports betting piece should bring in $35 to $50 million alone, he said.

“A tremendous upside for schools here,” he said. “The big story is that this is a win for schools.

This story was published by the Small Business Association of Michigan