The Louisiana Gaming Control Board has sent a cease-and-desist notice to Bovada, an offshore and unregulated sports betting and iGaming operator, ordering them to immediately cease services in the state. Chairman Christopher B. Hebert stated that the company has yet to receive the notice. Bovada, operated by Harp Media B.V. in Willemstad, Curaçao, is allowing Louisiana residents to place wagers in violation of state laws. The notice demands that Bovada inform all account holders of the illegality of its services in Louisiana and allow customers to withdraw their funds. Failure to comply may result in legal action.
This action is part of a trend where state regulators send cease-and-desist letters to Bovada, the company does not acknowledge receipt, and then adds the state to its restricted list. Some states, including Nevada, New Jersey, and Ohio, have already been restricted by Bovada. Recently, Bovada has restricted access in Ohio and added Washington, D.C. and Connecticut to its list of restricted markets. The company has faced increased regulatory scrutiny in recent months, prompting concerns about responsible gaming, economic development, and lack of legal compliance. The Louisiana Gaming Control Board hopes that federal authorities will crack down on companies like Bovada that operate without proper regulatory safeguards.
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