Michigan regulatory affairs have been discontinued for Curaçao-based Bovada

MGCB alleges that Bovada’s operator, Harp Media BV, allows Michigan players access to Bovada.com and Bovada.lv. This happens despite the lack of appropriate permission.

The regulator accused Harp Media BV of violating several Michigan gambling laws. This includes the Legal Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.

Only federally authorized tribal casinos and casinos licensed under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act may apply for an online gaming or sports betting license.

Conducting an illegal gambling activity is a crime. Offenders could face up to ten years in prison or a fine of up to $100,000 (£78,562/€92,276) or both.

Harp Media BV has 14 days from receiving the order to block Michigan residents from using its services. The letter was sent yesterday (May 29). After this period, MGCB will take legal action.

Henry Williams, executive director of MGCB, said the cessation of operations was a warning to other international operators.

“The proliferation of online gaming platforms has led to increased scrutiny from regulators around the world, and this action sends a stark warning to foreign companies that disregard for local regulations will not be tolerated,” Williams said.

“MGCB remains steadfast in its commitment to complying with Michigan laws and regulations and will continue to actively monitor and enforce them statewide to ensure a fair and safe gaming environment for all.”

Re-regulating Curaçao to improve industry reputation

Bovada’s home base in Curaçao is currently in the process of reforming its gambling regulations. It is waiting for the implementation of the National Regulation on Games of Chance (LOK), a new legal act.

We hope that the arrival of LOK will enhance the reputation of the Curaçao industry. The region has long been associated with lax anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and criminal activity.

The LOK will replace the current regulations, the National Ordinance on Offshore Hazardous Gaming (NOOGH). Javier Silvania, Curaçao’s finance minister, said LOK would provide a “safety net” against greylisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the anti-money laundering body.

Earlier this month, Michigan reported an 8.7% decline in online gaming revenue in April. Sports betting and gaming operators in the state reported revenue of $234.8 million in April, down month-over-month. Detroit casinos also saw revenue decline in April, falling 11.7% monthly to $109.4 million.