Unlicensed Sportsbook Bovada Ceases Operations in Colorado and Michigan Amid Legal Pressure

The parent company, Harp Media B.V., received cease-and-desist orders from both states, compelling Bovada to restrict access in these and several other US jurisdictions.

Legal Actions and Compliance Deadlines

On May 29, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) issued a notice to Harp Media B.V., giving it 14 days to cease offering gaming services to Michigan residents.

Failure to comply could result in legal action. The accusations against Harp Media B.V. include multiple violations of Michigan’s gaming laws:

• Lawful Internet Gaming Act
• Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act
• Michigan Penal Code

Similarly, Colorado’s gambling authorities have listed the state as restricted on Bovada’s website. Customers from restricted states are only allowed to withdraw their remaining funds as cryptocurrency.

Connecticut Joins the Regulatory Crackdown

Following Michigan and Colorado, Connecticut has also taken action against Bovada. On June 14, the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection issued a cease-and-desist letter, requiring Bovada to immediately stop offering its services to Connecticut residents to avoid civil and criminal penalties.

Kristofer Gilman, Connecticut’s Director of Gaming, stated that Harp Media B.V. is violating multiple state statutes, including Connecticut General Statutes 53-278b and 53-278d and the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA).