Louisiana Issues Cease-and-Desist Order to Bovada Amid Nationwide Crackdown

Louisiana has ed a growing list of states taking a stand against illegal online gambling operations by issuing a cease-and-desist order to offshore operator Bovada. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB) sent the order on August 6, demanding that Bovada cease its operations within the state. The Curaçao-based, Harp Media-owned platform has been providing unauthorized online gambling services, prompting Louisiana regulators to take firm action.

At the heart of Louisiana’s decision is the LGCB’s promise to ensure that all gaming activities within the state comply with established regulations.

LGCB Chairman Chris Hebert voiced his for the state’s efforts, highlighting the board’s determination to shut down illegal gambling activities. Hebert stated, “Bovada is allowing Louisiana residents and/or persons located in the state of Louisiana to place wagers via mobile application and internet websites with online casino services which include sportsbook, iGaming, table games, slots, live dealer, poker, horse racing, and hundreds of other gambling options in violation of Louisiana gaming laws and regulations.”

Hebert also acknowledged the actions taken by other states, including Michigan and Connecticut, which have sent similar cease-and-desist letters to Bovada, resulting in the operator restricting access to its platform in those regions. “It is my sincere hope that Louisiana will the list of restricted states based on our letter,” Hebert added. He further expressed his hope that federal authorities would soon take more robust action against companies operating outside the bounds of U.S. law, particularly those lacking the necessary regulatory, legal, and financial safeguards.

Bovada’s Growing List of Restricted States

Louisiana’s attempt to curb Bovada’s operations is part of a broader trend seen across the United States. Despite the strong language in the LGCB’s cease-and-desist order, Bovada has yet to acknowledge receipt of the letter as of August 30. This lack of response mirrors the operator’s behavior in other states. Typically, regulators send out cease-and-desist orders, often met with silence, after which Bovada quietly updates its list of restricted jurisdictions.

Currently, Bovada’s website lists the following states where its services are blocked:

• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New York
• Maryland
• Delaware
• Michigan
• Colorado
• West Virginia
• Connecticut
• Washington, D.C.
• Ohio

Ohio was the latest state to successfully restrict Bovada’s operations, with the offshore operator ceasing to accept wagers there just last week. The movement to issue cease-and-desist orders began earlier this year, with Michigan and Colorado taking the lead in May.

Louisiana’s Push for Compliance and Future Outlook

While Louisiana is not yet on Bovada’s list of restricted states, the LGCB remains vigilant. Hebert emphasized that Bovada must continue allowing all Louisiana customers to withdraw any funds currently held by the platform. Failure to comply could lead to additional civil or criminal actions against the company.

Louisiana’s gaming regulators are closely monitoring the situation, and the state’s inclusion on Bovada’s block list may only be a matter of time. The LGCB’s actions align with a growing national movement to enforce legal gaming operations and protect consumers from unregulated platforms.

In the ongoing battle against offshore gambling operators like Bovada, Louisiana’s efforts represent a crucial step toward greater oversight and regulation in the online gaming industry. As more states take similar actions, Bovada’s ability to operate within the U.S. continues to shrink, pushing the need for federal intervention to address these unregulated gambling platforms comprehensively.

Source:

”Louisiana latest state to tell Bovada to get out”, sbcamericas.com, August 30, 2024.