Michigan Court Issues 14-Day Restraining Order Against Kalshi’s Sports Markets

A Michigan judge has granted a temporary restraining order against Kalshi, halting the prediction market platform from offering sports related event contracts within the state. Ingham County Circuit Court Judge Rosemarie E. Aquilina issued the order Monday, with Attorney General Dana Nessel confirming it will remain active until July 13. Kalshi faces a $120,000 daily fine for any failure to meet the geo-fencing requirements outlined in the order.

Legal Battle Moves Back to State Court

The ruling follows a federal court decision sending Michigan’s lawsuit against Kalshi back to state jurisdiction, after Kalshi had tried shifting the case to federal court. Michigan originally sued in March, arguing Kalshi’s sports contracts violate the state’s Lawful Sports Betting Act by functioning as unlicensed gambling.

Broader Fight Over Federal vs State Authority

More than a dozen states have taken similar action against Kalshi and Polymarket US, while the CFTC maintains federal rules override state restrictions. Despite the legal pressure, Kalshi’s trading volume has continued climbing, surpassing $30 billion this month, a 79% jump from May, partly fueled by interest tied to the World Cup.