State Rep. Michael Webber of Rochester Hills issued the following statement today after Gov. Whitmer signed legislation legalizing participation in fantasy sports contests and permitting sports betting in Michigan:

“It’s been a long time coming, but legal sports wagering is now a reality here in Michigan. We’ve crossed the finish line and took the necessary strides to update Michigan’s decades-old gaming control laws.

“No longer will we remain on the sidelines, lose our competitive edge and miss out on a considerable amount of revenue. Today marks the day Michigan becomes a leader. We’re adapting to a rapidly growing entertainment demand from residents, protecting them in the process, and our local communities and school districts are coming out winners because of it.

“This is great victory for our state and the people of Michigan.”