The push to eliminate the unregulated sports betting and online casino market in Michigan continued this week with five more cease-and-desist letters.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board sent the letters Wednesday to five offshore operators offering unlicensed Michigan online casinos. Mitten State regulators sent 10 letters to unlicensed operators in February, the latest in a series of actions since last year.
“These illegal platforms not only violate Michigan’s gaming regulations but also put consumers at risk by offering unreliable withdrawal options and lacking essential consumer protections,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a release. “Our top priority is safeguarding Michigan residents by ensuring that all online gaming activities are conducted legally and safely. These operators must stop their activities or face additional legal consequences.”
Offshore Michigan online casino ops targeted
Following an investigation, the MGCB found the five sites to be in violation of multiple state laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act.
The operators offer various games, such as slots, poker and blackjack, as well as sports betting. They have 14 days to cease operations in Michigan; otherwise, the MGCB will work with the state’s Attorney General’s Office to pursue a legal option.
The five operators:
- BetWhale Casino
- Black Lotus Casino
- Coins Game Casino
- Love2Play Casino
- Orion Stars 777 Players
Michigan leading black market shutdown
Michigan regulators are a leader in shutting down offshore and unlicensed sports betting and online casino operators.
With the five letters this week, the MGCB has now sent cease-and-desist orders to at least 20 operators. Last spring, it kicked off a long string of state actions against Bovada.
In 2023, Williams led a collation of state regulators asking for federal assistance in fighting the offshore industry. Last year, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer allocated money to the state budget to fight the unregulated gambling sector.
MGCB pushes responsible gambling
In its release, the MGCB noted it remains committed to consumer safety and “to protecting the well-being of Michigan residents and ensuring that all online gaming activities are safe, fair and regulated.”
The agency also announced Wednesday its commitment to promoting responsible gambling ahead of March Madness betting and during Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
“We encourage Michigan residents to enjoy March Madness, but it’s vital that they do so in a way that keeps their well-being a priority,” Williams said. “Whether you’re placing a bet on the game or participating in other forms of gaming, setting limits and being aware of the risks is crucial to ensuring a healthy experience.”
