Michigan Regulators 'No Comment' Regarding Bovada Cease and Desist

A handful of industry media outlets have reached out to The Michigan Gaming Control Board in regard to a cease & desist letter sent out to Bovada two weeks ago and the response was identical.  "No comment".

State regulators claim Bovada is in violation of Michigan’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.”

The board said Bovada had 14 days to take steps to prevent Michigan residents from gaming on their sites before further legal action is taken.  That 14 days is now believed to be up as the letter was sent out the final week in May.   Bovada continued to take bets from those in Michigan as of Friday night.

Mike Mazzeo of Legal Sports Report: "The Michigan regulator is declining further comment on what day exactly Bovada received the letter. I got nothing ..."

Robert Linnehan of XL Media: "Reached out to the Michigan Gaming Control Board for an update on the Bovada cease-and-desist letter.  Received a “no further comment” on the issue."

Catena Media's Brant James: "Michigan gambling board says it has 'no more comment on the matter' of Bovada cease-and-desist order."

Bovada is licensed in Curacao and takes bets worldwide, including throughout much of North America.  The company exited the Maryland market as a result of a settlement agreement.  It also does not take bets in New York, New Jersey, Nevada and Delaware.

Michigan has previously forced the exit of a number of unlicensed so-called social casinos including the wildly popular Chumba Casino.

s By  Nagesh Rath Born in Punjab, India, Nagesh has been writing for the Gambling911.com website since 2019.  He mostly covers the more controversial stories impacting the world of gambling, specializing in poker. Nagesh's favorite sport is cricket.  This beat reporter operates from our Miami Beach base where he resides with his wonderful wife Ravjeer and three daughters.