TLDR Michigan Gaming Control Board has withdrawn from the National Council on Problem Gambling. The exit is a protest against Kalshi’s new platinum-level membership with the council. Kalshi pledged $2 million over two years to join NCPG in May. Michigan secured a temporary restraining order against Kalshi on June 29 over sports event contracts. NCPG says it stays neutral on the legality of specific gambling products.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board has ended its relationship with the National Council on Problem Gambling. The move is a direct response to the council accepting Kalshi as a platinum-level member.
The decision was laid out in a letter dated July 1. Executive director Henry Williams wrote the letter explaining the board’s reasoning.
Kalshi is a prediction markets operator. It joined NCPG in May and pledged $2 million to the group over two years.
Williams argued that this partnership works against actions states have already taken against prediction markets. He said it could weaken regulatory power across the country.
Why Michigan Objects to the Kalshi Partnership
Williams took issue with how Kalshi describes its sports-related offerings. He said the company frames its sporting event contracts as similar to investment or insurance products.
He wrote that this framing undermines a core message of responsible gaming. That message is that gambling of any kind is meant for entertainment, not financial gain.
Williams called this approach a threat to consumer protection efforts. He said accepting Kalshi’s framing sends the wrong signal to the public.
The letter did not hold back in its criticism of the council’s choice. Williams described his opposition as deep and direct.
NCPG’s Response and the Ongoing Legal Fight
The National Council on Problem Gambling addressed the issue before Michigan’s exit became public. In June, the group said it does not