2017 Senate Bill 202 / Public Act 41

Exempt no-cash social media games from gambling ban

Introduced in the Senate

March 1, 2017

Introduced by Sen. Jack Brandenburg (R-8)

To establish that the state’s laws against gambling do not apply to a “social media internet game” that rewards players with either a free play or an extended period of playing time as a result of chance or uncertain event. The bill excludes “fantasy sports” games from its provisions; see also Senate Bill 203.

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform

March 16, 2017

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the bill pass.

March 22, 2017

Passed in the Senate 35 to 3 (details)

Received in the House

March 22, 2017

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform

April 19, 2017

Reported without amendment

Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.

April 27, 2017

Amendment offered by Rep. Brandt Iden (R-61)

To clarify details of the "rewards" that would be permitted.

The amendment passed by voice vote

May 2, 2017

Passed in the House 103 to 4 (details)

To establish that the state’s laws against gambling do not apply to a “social media internet game” that rewards players with either a free play or an extended period of playing time as a result of chance or uncertain event. The bill excludes “fantasy sports” games from its provisions; see also Senate Bill 203.

Received in the Senate

May 4, 2017

Passed in the Senate 35 to 2 (details)

Signed by Gov. Rick Snyder

May 23, 2017