Michigan Expands Enforcement to Offshore Poker Networks
Michigan’s Gaming Control Board has expanded its offshore gambling enforcement to include poker networks, marking a shift in how the state treats unlicensed operators. In enforcement orders issued April 7, the MGCB named four offshore poker brands ACR Poker and True Poker, both on Winning Poker Network, and BetOnline and Sportsbetting, both on Chico Poker Network alongside 41 other unlicensed gambling sites.
The importance lies not in the number of poker brands named, but in the category. Offshore poker has often faced less direct state enforcement than unlicensed casinos and sportsbooks. That position is harder to maintain in Michigan now that the state has a more developed regulated poker market.
Michigan has four licensed online poker rooms: PokerStars on FanDuel, WSOP Online, BetMGM Poker, and BetRivers Poker. These operators share liquidity through MSIGA, giving Michigan players access to player pools that a single-state market could not support when online poker launched in 2021.
“Our focus is to address illegal gaming in the State of Michigan that is offered by any entity or individual not licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board,” the MGCB stated, reiterating language that now clearly covers poker networks.
Timing matters. ACR Poker had already exited Michigan in February, before the April orders. It remains unclear whether True Poker, BetOnline, or Sportsbetting were still active in the state when the notices were issued. Pokerfuse reported that ACR’s departure came before the formal enforcement action.
💡 TGJ Take
This is a warning sign for offshore poker in regulated US states. Once legal operators can offer stronger liquidity, offshore networks lose part of their practical appeal to players and part of their tolerance from regulators. Affiliates promoting US-facing offshore poker brands should treat these partnerships as higher-risk, especially in states with licensed online poker. Michigan’s move does not mean every state will act next, but it gives other regulators a clear enforcement template.
