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The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) responded to the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) withdrawing from the organization last week.
An NCPG spokesperson told PlayMichigan over the weekend:
“We are disappointed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s decision to withdraw its membership from the National Council on Problem Gambling.”
The MGCB withdrew over the NCPG’s relationship with prediction market operator Kalshi.
Defending neutral position
The MGCB views Kalshi as an illegal gambling operator, and it told the NCPG in a letter that it cannot associate with “organizations that are affiliated with companies engaged in illegal gambling.” The state offers legal sports wagering and Michigan online casinos.
Despite the NCPG’s disappointment, it’s still defending its mission. The spokesperson added:
“For more than 50 years, NCPG has maintained a neutral position on legalized gambling while engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders across the gambling ecosystem. Our longstanding policy is clear: membership, partnership, sponsorship, and financial support do not constitute endorsement, nor do they influence NCPG’s governance, policy positions, educational content, research priorities, or advocacy efforts.
“Our mission remains unchanged. NCPG will continue to work with all stakeholders committed to reducing gambling-related harm, expanding access to prevention, treatment, recovery, and support services, and advancing evidence-informed public health solutions for all individuals affected by gambling-related harm.”
The NCPG will continue to provide responsible gambling tools to those in need, it said.
What this means for both sides
Nothing changes for online gambling customers in the Great Lakes State using legal platforms, including Michigan sports betting operators. However, the relationship between the MGCB and NCPG changes drastically.
The MGCB is urging that all references and membership affiliations are to be removed immediately.
In addition, MGCB employees will no longer serve on any board or committee of the NCPG and will no longer attend events, including the annual conference. The MGCB is also cancelling paid sponsorship for the conference at the end of the month.
MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams cited the MGCB’s withdrawal letter, stating that continuing NCPG membership conflicted with the agency’s mission and responsible gaming commitments:
“After considering this matter, I have concluded that continuing our membership in NCPG is inconsistent with the MGCB’s mission, statutory responsibilities, and its commitment to responsible gaming and to protecting the public from the risks of problem gambling in Michigan.”
