Can't Use Bovada in Kansas, Louisiana and Pennsylvania Any More

The popular online sportsbook and casino site Bovada has now restricted customers in three more U.S. states.  These include Louisiana, Kansas and Pennsylvania.

Bovada now restricts customers in 13 states plus the District of Colombia.

Each of the states listed regulates sports betting with some, like Michigan, also licensing online casinos.

Some of the states on the list sent out Cease and Desist notices.

Sources close to Gambling911.com report that an affiliate, or affiliates and or someone working/freelancing on behalf of Bovada had used localized search features to make it appear as if the gambling site maintained offices in certain locales.  A common example of this would be Google Maps showing Bovada Online Casino located at a specific city street address along with a local telephone number.  It is unclear if this method was employed in any of the states appearing on their restricted list however.

Back in May, Michigan regulators claimed that Bovada was in violation of that state's Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act and the Michigan Penal Code.

“The proliferation of online gaming platforms has led to increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies worldwide, and this action serves as a stern warning to overseas companies that flouting local regulations will not be tolerated,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. “The MGCB remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding Michigan’s laws and regulations and will continue to actively monitor and enforce compliance within the state to ensure a fair and secure gaming environment for all.”

James Bain, enforcement attorney for the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, advised Robert Linnehan of XL Media the KRGC sent a cease-and-desist notice to Bovada more than two months ago on July 8.  Louisiana and PA did so in early August, according to Linnehan.

The latest restrictions apply to both new customers and current customers.

The company promises to return any unused balances.