Massachusetts Gaming Commission Laws & Regulations

Massachusetts Gaming Commission Considers Actions Against Off-Shore Sportsbook

By Lisa Spencer Senior Editor Updated: 26 June 2024

Lisa Spencer Senior Editor

As a Senior Editor at Betting.US, Lisa Spencer is a valuable member of our expert team. With a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics, Lisa is adept in gambling theory and analyzing odds. She contributes by writing online sportsbook reviews and finding competitive markets to help our readers make an informed choice.

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It was recently revealed that the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is currently looking into potential regulatory action against Bovada, a major offshore sportsbook. The steps are in line with efforts from other states to crack down on illegal online gambling.

The matter was discussed by regulators and officials in a recent agenda-setting meeting where the commission talked about issuing cease-and-desist letters to offshore gambling entities.

Commissioner Nakisha Skinner, who recently attended the North American Gaming Regulators Association meeting, raised the issue. She spoke about similar measures being taken by Michigan and Connecticut. These states have actively pursued actions against unregulated online gambling platforms, with Michigan already issuing a cease-and-desist letter to Bovada for providing illegal gambling services.

Further Discussions Being Planned with Attorney General

According to reports, the MGC is considering involving Massachusetts’ Attorney General to further discuss the matter. Interim MGC chair, Jordan Maynard, said that the legal team might already be exploring options. Nakisha Skinner said:

I wonder if it’s worthwhile to just have a discussion among the commissioners as to whether there are any steps we might want to take as a commission along those lines, just with the understanding that our hands are somewhat tied.

She added that it was something worth discussing and that it was important to consider sending a cease-and-desist letter of their own.

This move by the MGC is part of a larger initiative across various states to tighten control over illegal online betting. Illegal operators have caused huge issues across the country, and regulators are keen to take action and enhance the success of regulated local markets.

As the U.S. expands legal sports betting, the aim is to shift bettors from illegal to state-regulated platforms. Officials said that this is important to protect bettors, safeguard state interests, and ensure a safe and controlled gambling environment.

Previously, Massachusetts regulators used cease-and-desist letters effectively against daily fantasy sports contests that resembled gambling. Action taken earlier this year by the state’s Attorney General also resulted in regulatory adjustments within the fantasy sports sector. This example supports the MGC’s current focus on similar interventions against operators like Bovada, according to officials.

It was also reported that the MGC is looking into the introduction of a ‘seal of approval’ for legal online sports betting sites within Massachusetts. This would help inform residents about safe and approved betting options, reinforcing legal betting practices.

Bovada Also Faces Scrutiny in Other States

It was revealed that Bovada is also facing increased scrutiny in other states around the nation. The Michigan Gaming Control Board has warned that it might target other offshore betting providers if Bovada fails to comply with its directive to discontinue services for Michigan residents.

Also, Connecticut’s Department of Consumer Protection is gearing up to issue its cease-and-desist letter to Bovada, expected within the next few weeks.

With illegal betting becoming such a major concern in states around the country, it is likely that more and more state regulators will start looking at stringent measures to clamp down.