In November 1996, Michigan voters approved Proposal E, effectively authorizing three licensed casinos to be built in Detroit. Proposal E was later substantially improved and strengthened, then signed into law as the Michigan Gaming Control & Revenue Act, as amended (Public Act 69 of 1997; MCL 432.201). The Act:

• Authorizes up to three licensed commercial casinos in the City of Detroit
• Vests the Michigan Gaming Control Board (a Type I state agency within the Michigan Department of Treasury) exclusive authority to license, regulate, and control the three authorized Detroit casinos
• Authorizes the MGCB to promulgate necessary Administrative Rules to properly implement, administer and enforce the amended Act
• Provides for the licensing, regulation, and control of casino gaming operations, manufacturers and distributors of gaming equipment and supplies, casino employees, and those who participate in gaming
• Establishes licensing standards and procedures for issuance of casino licenses, casino supplier licenses, and casino employee licenses
• Imposes civil and criminal penalties for violation of the Act
• Authorizes and imposes certain taxes and fees on casinos and others involved in casino gaming
• Provides for the distribution of casino tax revenue for K-12 public education in Michigan, and for capital improvement, youth programs, and tax relief in the City of Detroit
• Creates certain funds for the operation of the Board to license, regulate and control casino gaming; and funds for compulsive gambling prevention programs and other casino-related State programs
• Requires certain safeguards by casino licensees to prevent compulsive and underage gambling
• Prohibits political contributions by certain persons with interests in casino and supplier license applicants and licensees to state and local political candidates and committees
• Establishes a Code of Ethics for members, employees and agents of the Board, license applicants, licensees, and others involved in gaming