BetNow has been asked to leave the state of Michigan in a cease-and-desist letter sent by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). The offshore sportsbook, online casino app, and racebook has persisted in making contact with consumers in Michigan, in violation of gaming laws, the state agency says.
An offshore gambling company is illegal in the state. The MGCB works with licensed operators for legal online casino and online sports betting in Michigan.
In a press release, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said not only is BetNow breaking the law by offering casino games and sports betting in Michigan, it’s a threat.
“This unlicensed operator not only violates Michigan law, but also exposes consumers to significant risks. Our job is to protect Michigan residents by ensuring that all online gambling is conducted legally and responsibly.”
BetNow violating three Michigan laws
BetNow has 14 days from Feb. 24 to “cease offering gambling services to Michigan residents,” according to the release. The regulatory agency, which is required by law to safeguard Michigan residents from potential illegal gambling activity, says it will coordinate with the State Attorney General‘s office if BetNow does not comply.
The MGCB accuses BetNow of breaking three laws by operating in Michigan.
- Lawful Internet Gaming Act
- Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act
- Michigan Penal Code
Possible punishment may include up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $100,000, or both, for at least one of the offenses.
MGCB taking hard stance against offshore gambling
The move against BetNow is the latest in a series of actions taken by the MGCB to try and end offshore gambling in Michigan.
Michigan was one of six states that formed a coalition, urging the Department of Justice to take action against these offshore sites back in 2023.
Since then, the MGCB has sent cease-and-desist letters to nearly a dozen offshore gambling sources. Last May, it went after arguably one of the biggest, Bovada, with a cease-and-desist letter. Ultimately, Bovada complied.
Earlier this month, the MGCB sent cease-and-desist letters to nine other offshore gambling sites. They include:
- Solar Game LTD and Busan Trade Office (Go Go Gold)
- BetAnySports (BAS)
- CoolCat Casino
- Diamond Sportsbook International, d/b/a BetDSI.eu (BetDSI)
- My Dreams Casino
- NonStop casino
- Palace of Chance
- Xbet Casino
- WagerWeb
Residents of Michigan are encouraged to contact the MGCB at 1-888-314-2682 or by emailing [email protected] if they are aware of illegal gambling activity.
