Jim Ananich named new Michigan Gaming Control Board chair

Former state Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich has been appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to serve as chair of the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), the agency announced.

Ananich’s appointment, which took effect April 25, 2025, follows the end of former Chair Linda Forte’s term.

Ananich, a Flint native and current President and CEO of the Greater Flint Health Coalition, will serve on the Board through December 31, 2028, representing the Democratic Party. His appointment is pending approval by the Michigan Senate.

A veteran of Michigan politics, Ananich previously served as Senate Minority Leader, State Representative, and President of the Flint City Council. He also teaches state and local government at the University of Michigan-Flint. Earlier in his career, he worked as a high school social studies teacher

Ananich holds a bachelor’s degree in political economy from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision from the University of Michigan. He is also a member of the Advisory Board for the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan.

“Jim Ananich is a proven leader with a long-standing commitment to public service and the people of Michigan,” said Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB. “His legislative experience, strategic insight, and collaborative approach make him exceptionally well-suited to lead the board as we continue our mission to ensure the integrity of gaming in Michigan.”

Williams also thanked Forte for her leadership and years of service on the board.

Ananich joins current Board members Joni M. Thrower Davis, Mark Evenson, Deidre A. Lambert-Bounds, and Andrew T. Palms.

This week, the board issued cease-and-desist orders to two Panama-based offshore operators, BetOnline.ag and SportsBetting.ag, for unlawfully accepting bets from Michigan residents. 

The move follows similar action last week against 11 other unlicensed internet gaming sites that violate state law and operate without proper consumer safeguards or regulatory oversight.