(LANSING) - A new report is raising concerns that Michigan is falling behind other states in addressing gambling addiction as online sports betting revenue continues to grow.
Michigan legalized online sports wagering in 2021, and since then the industry has generated hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes and fees for the state.
But an advocacy group now gives Michigan a failing grade for gambling addiction prevention, pointing to limited treatment funding and fewer consumer safeguards than some other states.
The report says Michigan budgeted about $9.5 million this year for gambling addiction services.
Critics say the state lacks stronger guardrails such as tighter payment restrictions and better protections for people showing signs of problem gambling.
Researchers warn addiction concerns are likely to grow as online betting remains easy to access and continues expanding statewide.