February 03, 2016
Detroit – Detroit casino vendors received quicker license exemptions and benefitted from relaxed small-business disclosure requirements thanks to changes by the Michigan Gaming Control Board during 2015. Charities hosting millionaire parties also were aided as the MGCB processed event applications faster than in 2014.
An employee-led team clarified language and shortened the agency’s application form. Their recommendations helped the MGCB reduce turnaround time and refocus resources on additional agency improvements. Through process improvements, the MGCB cut casino licensing exemption turnaround time in half from 42 to 21 days, saving 16,800 processing days in 2015.
“The MGCB wants to help small Michigan businesses succeed because they are a significant supplier source for the Detroit casinos and important to the state’s economy,” said Richard Kalm, MGCB executive director.
In February, the agency changed disclosure requirements for non-gaming Detroit casino suppliers. The change resulted in a reduced need for vendor licensing exemption requests -- a 25 percent decline -- and 21 percent fewer license requests from non-gaming suppliers through Jan. 31. A non-gaming supplier provides goods or services not associated with casino gaming.
“A less-cumbersome regulatory process makes it easier for Michigan small businesses to benefit from supplying goods and services to the Detroit casinos,” Kalm said.
Since 2014, the MGCB decreased millionaire party license application turnaround time by 28 percent, saving 12 days in application processing time. On average, qualified nonprofit organizations receive a charity poker license within 31 days of application instead of the previous time of 43 days.
"The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the State of Michigan."
