A circuit judge overturned the MGCB's decision ordering the casinos shut down if the state does not reach a budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1.

The gaming board has said that it will file an appeal to the Michigan Court of Appeals. It was not clear whether an emergency appeal had been filed by the close of business on Friday. They may have to wait until Monday - the first day of the shutdown. The Court of Appeals will be closed as part of the shutdown, but will keep a skeleton staff available to handle emergency matters such as this.

The judge had some interesting reasons for allowing the casinos to stay open (if the media's version is correct). However, the appellate courts in Michigan have previously ruled that the MGCB has almost God-like powers when it comes to the casinos. We'll see how it turns out - but as a lawyer, I wish I had a piece of the litigation action!