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Editor’s note: After Governor Snyder’s 2018 veto, Michigan lawmakers reintroduced iGaming; regulated online casinos—including blackjack—launched in 2021. This article preserves the original reporting on the veto for historical context.
Michigan legislators worked hard in the final days of the 2018 legislative session to pass a bill that would have legalized online gambling in the state. The bill was expected to be signed into law by Governor Rick Snyder before his term ended on December 31. Instead, Snyder vetoed 40 bills on his way out the door, one of which was the bill that would have made online blackjack legal in Michigan.
Michigan Lawmakers Want to Legalize Online Gambling
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Blackjack has long been the most popular card game played for real money online, and many variations of the game can be found in states where online play is legal. As 2018 drew to a close the legislative body in Michigan worked late into the night before breaking for the Christmas holidays.
One of their primary goals was to craft an online gambling bill that would allow Internet betting on casino games like blackjack, slot, and craps. The bill received bipartisan support and sought to add a new division to the Michigan Gaming Control Board that would oversee online wagering. Like other states, the bill called for existing land-based casinos to operate the online gaming venues. The games would have been open to any resident of Michigan that was 21 years of age or older.
The bill taxed revenues from online gambling at 8%. 30% of the revenues collected from each online gaming venue would be allocated to the city in which the physical casino was located. Lawmakers saw an opportunity to have a positive economic impact on some of Michigan’s more troubled economies. This would have particularly benefited Detroit, a city that has been decimated by economic difficulties in the past decade. Lawmakers believed that the additional revenues created by online gambling could have led to more job creation in the city. Schools and roads were also to be beneficiaries of the online gambling bill.
It also allocated a portion of revenues to the development of horse racing in the state. Everyone seemed to be pleased with how the revenues were allocated except for Governor Snyder.
Governor Snyder Says No to Online Blackjack in Michigan
Governor Synder wasted no time in making the most of his lame duck exit from the state capitol. Rather than approve the legislation like everyone expected, Snyder vetoed the online gambling bill. It will now have to be reconsidered by Michigan lawmakers during another legislative session. Many have proposed theories about why the Governor would veto the bill.
Some believe that the online gambling bill in Michigan was vetoed because the Michigan Lottery raised concerns. Governor Snyder even went so far as to say he was protecting the Michigan Lottery, although from what he would not say. Some believe that legalized online gambling has the potential to affect the sales of lottery tickets, but in other states where online gambling has become legal this is not the case. Snyder also stated that he was unclear on how some of the revenues and taxes would be collected and disbursed.
The Future of Online Blackjack in Michigan
Update: The veto slowed—but did not permanently block—Michigan iGaming. Today, in-state players 21+ can open regulated apps tied to Detroit-area casinos; geolocation applies, and offshore gray-market sites remain legally risky.
Historically, observers worried Michigan would lose online blackjack tax dollars to unlicensed operators. That tension still matters: always verify a site carries MGCB approval before you deposit. For bankroll discipline and promos, see our blackjack bonuses and money management guides.
If you are outside a legal state, do not assume “offshore OK”—read local law and stick to licensed products where available. Bitcoin deposits do not change the regulatory facts on the ground. To play real money blackjack where permitted, start with our recommended blackjack hubs. Compare withdrawal timing and bonus rules in our online blackjack reviews hub before you pick a room. Related:
FAQs: Michigan online blackjack
Is online blackjack legal in Michigan now?
Yes for regulated operators licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board; you must be physically located in the state.
Why did Snyder veto the 2018 bill?
He cited lottery cannibalization concerns and revenue-handling questions; later legislatures revisited the package.
Can I practice blackjack before depositing?
Use licensed demo modes where offered, or our free blackjack resources, then confirm live rules on the real-money table.
Frequently asked questions
Is online blackjack legal in Michigan?
Yes—regulated Michigan online casinos launched after the 2018 veto was overcome; play only MGCB-licensed apps while located in Michigan.
Why did Governor Snyder veto online gambling in 2018?
He pointed to Michigan Lottery impacts and administrative concerns about tax distribution; the article documents that historical decision.
Should I play offshore blackjack from Michigan?
Counting Edge recommends licensed U.S. jurisdictions; offshore play can carry legal and banking risks.
Use what you read here as a study guide, then validate ideas at low stakes with clear session limits.