Legislators in Michigan have given the green light for online wagering on horse racing in the state, although the 2020 opening date for Michigan's only remaining racetrack, Northville Downs, remains up in the air.

On Wednesday, May 6, the Michigan Gaming Control Board issued an order that legalizes the online wagering, according to an article by Crain's Detroit Business.

In a press release from the MGCB, Richard Kalm, the control board's executive director, said that, "The order should enable the state's horse racing industry to gain new followers through (advance deposit wagering) and maintain protection for citizens who wish to place wagers on live and simulcast pari-mutuel racing in Michigan using their mobile phones."

Last November, Northville was allocated 52 dates for the 2020 season. It was announced in March that there would be no live racing at Northville this year until state regulators believe the track can be opened safely, in light of the COVID-10 pandemic.

(With files from Crain's Detroit Business)