The Michigan Gaming Control Board reported last week that several state regulators wrote a letter to US attorney general Merrick G. Garland, asking the Department of Justice for more action to curtail offshore gambling in the United States. The letter was signed by seven other state regulatory agencies. List of the states that signed it:
Colorado
Illinois
Louisiana
Mississippi
New Jersey
Nevada
Nevada Gaming Control Board chairman Kirk D Hendrick forwarded the letter to the DOJ with regulators’ concerns.
MGCB’s Executive Director Henry Williams stated that Michigan has strict laws and regulations governing internet gaming and sports gambling. These laws and rules protect consumers, encourage confidence and ensure fair and honest games. We are ready to assist the U.S. Department of Justice with any efforts it makes in enforcing U.S. law against illegal offshore gaming operations that exploit our citizens.
Black Friday was the last major crackdown on illegal offshore operators by the DOJ. The websites and assets of major online poker sites have been seized. Since the repeal PASPA, the online gambling industry that is regulated has repeatedly warned the federal government about the dangers of offshore gambling sites.
State regulators, like the MGCB, ensure that operators provide products that meet technical standards and tests. We also require operators comply with reporting requirements. Williams said that offshore operators flout state regulations, and provide products which do not protect consumers.
State regulators are joining the American Gaming Association in this increasing vocal campaign. The AGA is calling for action, and sent a similar letter to Garland and the DOJ in April 2022. In June that year, over 25 Congressmen, led by Nevada Rep. Dina T. Titus wrote a similar letter to the DOJ and Garland asking for action.
