An interesting detail to note is that the only people who showed up were those pushing for legalization. The beurocrats who were against ot, and also worked for the illegalization were not present which leads me to believe they aren't all that interested in this fight.
That's not a safe conclusion to reach. The 'pro' side has to be vocal, has to press these hearings. Those opposed, especially the Tribes, will do so quietly. Like good poker players, they won't expose their
hands until the showdown.
There is language in this bill that requires the state's Tribes to cede sovereignty, albeit limited to this area but, something Tribes typically will not do. It sets a bad precedent and they fought too hard for their rights to start ceding them over a little at a time.
Online poker itself isn't worth that much, casino games would fare better. But the IGRA complicates the issue in Tribal states.
There's reason to be optimistic and at least pleased there is a discussion going on. But online
poker in Michigan is not around the next corner.