The chief Louisiana sports betting regulator is the latest state-level official pushing the offshore sportsbook Bovada to leave its market.
The Louisiana Gambling Control Board sent Bovada a cease and desist letter pushing the illegal gambling operator to leave Louisiana sports betting on August 6. Aside from comments from LGCB Chairman Chris Hebert at an August 15 meeting, a spokesperson told LSR last week no additional statements will be made until Bovada confirms receipt.
“Recently, our regulatory colleagues in states like Michigan and Connecticut have sent similar letters which have caused them to restrict their site to residents in those respective states,” Hebert said. “It is my sincere hope Louisiana will soon join those restricted states.”
Bovada losing unrestricted US markets
Earlier this month, Bovada added Ohio to its list of restricted states. The Ohio Casino Control Commission’s letter also was sent August 6.
Michigan regulators were the first to issue a cease and desist to Bovada this year. Connecticut and Colorado followed, and Massachusetts is exploring a potential action.
There are now 11 restricted markets listed on Bovada’s website:
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New York
- Ohio
- Washington DC
- West Virginia
Louisiana adds to national pressure
The American Gaming Association estimates US bettors illegally wager more than $500 million on offshore websites. The AGA asked US Attorney General Merrick Garland to crack down on illegal sports betting operators.
Last year, multiple US sports betting regulators asked the US Department of Justice to help police the offshore sportsbooks. Louisiana was among the state signatories.
During his comments last month, Hebert added to the pleas for help from the federal government.
“I hope the federal government will use its resources to crack down on these companies,” he said.
New Louisiana sports betting regulator
Ronnie Johns, the LGCB chairman who helped get sports betting off the ground, retired earlier this summer.
Gov. Jeff Landry appointed Hebert to the position in June.
Prior to the position, Hebert was an assistant attorney general in Louisiana for more than 19 years, including eight years as the director of the gaming division.
