Bovada Complies with Michigan’s Cease-and-Desist Order

Harp Media, the company behind the online casino giant Bovada, has seemingly pulled back from the Michigan market, complying with the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s recent cease-and-desist order. This seems to be further confirmed by the Curaçao-based operator itself, according to its official website.

Bovada’s FAQ section currently includes Michigan in the Which Countries Are Restricted? subsection, listing the state as a jurisdiction where it no longer offers its products. Other US states in this section include Colorado, Delaware, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey and New York.

Bovada’s FAQ section includes additional information about players in restricted states, advising them to contact the operator’s customer service department to learn more about how to make a withdrawal via crypto.

For context, the MGCB sent a cease-and-desist letter to Bovada’s ownership company, Harp Media, on May 29, informing it that its operations are in breach of the Michigan Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act and the Michigan Penal Code.

Harp Media was given two weeks to respond.

MGCB Is Encouraged by Bovada’s Compliance

In a statement provided to US Bets, the MGCB expressed optimism about Bovada’s compliance with the cease-and-desist letter. The regulator was encouraged that the online casino company now lists Michigan among the restricted states, calling it a “good indication” that Bovada is taking the letter seriously.

However, Lisa Keith, a spokeswoman for the MGCB, added that the authority would remain vigilant, monitor the status of Bovada’s offering in Michigan and take further action, if necessary.

As a major online operator, Bovada has attracted the ire of regulators in certain jurisdictions where it doesn’t hold an official license. In the wake of Michigan’s action against the operator, Connecticut also took similar actions against the online casino giant, according to reports. Analysts believe that other states may follow.

Colorado and Michigan are two of the US states where online gaming is legal and thriving. Generating millions of dollars every year, the internet casino sector occupies an important spot in the local economy. Because of that, regulators are bullish on decreasing the influence of unlicensed online operators.

Michigan’s Lottery Sector Also Grows

In the meantime, Michigan’s lottery sector also continues to experience significant growth, resulting in players winning big time.

Earlier this month, a player was left speechless after winning a $100,000 second-chance win. Another player followed his father’s advice, scoring a jackpot of $7.2 million.

A few days earlier still, a lucky Fantasy 5 player won $100,000.