Global online poker giant GGPoker has abruptly withdrawn its subscription-based ClubGG service from Michigan, citing changes in the state’s gaming laws as the reason for its exit. The shutdown, effective immediately, has left many players without access to the platform, which offered subscription poker games through its Membership Zone.
ClubGG Announcement
Michigan-based players received an email from ClubGG, notifying them of the sudden decision to halt services in the state. The email read:
“We regret to inform you that due to recent changes in state law in your jurisdiction, we are no longer able to offer subscription game (Membership Zone) services to residents of your state. Unfortunately, this means that we must cancel your membership.
If you have a residence outside of Michigan that you can prove with proof of address with your name displayed, please let us know you wish you change your KYC details.
For iOS users we cannot cancel for you, here’s a guide to cancel your subscription.
As a valued member, we want to ensure that you have the opportunity to redeem any L$ remaining in your account. Please log in and redeem your L$. We understand that this may be disappointing news, and we want to thank you for being a part of our community. Thank you for your understanding, and we hope to serve you again in the future if circumstances change.“
Subscription Model vs. Sweeps-Based Systems
Unlike other online poker sites that rely on a sweepstakes poker model, ClubGG operates through a subscription service. Sweeps models, which have faced increasing scrutiny from regulators in various states, might have triggered regulatory action against ClubGG’s subscription model in Michigan.
Whether Michigan regulators contacted ClubGG directly is unknown, but the state has been proactive in cracking down on what it views as potential violations of its gambling laws.
Michigan is now the 10th state where ClubGG is unavailable. The list also includes Georgia, Hawaii, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Washington.
For now, Michigan players are left without access to the platform, and the legal climate around subscription-based poker sites remains uncertain in the Wolverine State.
English