The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) has issued a cease-and-desist notice to Bovada, a Curacao-based online gambling operator, following a memo from the American Gaming Association (AGA) urging regulators to investigate sweepstakes games. The notice, sent by OCCC Executive Director Matthew T. Schuler on August 6, demanded that Bovada cease all activities in Ohio by August 16 or face legal action.
The OCCC accused Bovada of operating as an unlicensed online casino, poker room, and sportsbook in the state, as well as allowing underage gambling, which is illegal in Ohio. Schuler’s letter made it clear that such activities are strictly prohibited under Ohio’s Criminal Code.
As a result of the cease-and-desist notice, Bovada has withdrawn from Ohio, adding to the list of 12 states from which it has been forced to exit. These states include Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Delaware, Michigan, Massachusetts, Colorado, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
The actions taken by OCCC against Bovada highlight the growing scrutiny and crackdown on online gambling operators engaging in illegal activities. The AGA’s call for regulators to investigate sweepstakes games appears to be gaining traction, leading to enforcement actions like the one against Bovada in Ohio.
Overall, the regulatory landscape for online gambling in the United States is evolving, with state authorities becoming increasingly vigilant in enforcing laws and regulations to protect consumers and ensure fair and responsible gaming practices. The case of Bovada serves as a reminder to operators that compliance with state laws is essential to avoid facing legal consequences and being forced to exit markets.