Florida Orders Three Online Gaming Sites to Exit State

Florida regulators intensify crackdown on illegal online gambling

Florida regulators are intensifying their crackdown on illegal online gambling. The state has recently ordered three offshore gaming operators to stop providing their services within the state. The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) issued cease-and-desist letters to BetUS, Bovada, and MyBookie, accusing them of violating state gambling laws by facilitating unauthorized sports betting and casino gaming.

Illegal activities under scrutiny
The FGCC clarified that these online platforms only offer unlicensed wagers, which are strictly prohibited under Florida law. The commission outlined that these websites provide betting options such as:

• Sports events

• Horse racing

• Proposition bets and futures

Florida law classifies engaging in or facilitating illegal wagering as a felony offense, prohibiting bets on any contest involving skill, speed, or endurance of humans or animals. Even aiding or assisting such activities is considered a felony under state statutes.

Legal gambling landscape in Florida
Ross Marshman, Executive Director of the FGCC, reinforced Florida’s stringent stance on gambling, highlighting that only a limited number of operators are legally permitted within the state. Currently, Florida allows just 14 authorized slot machine operations:

• Eight state-licensed facilities

• Six tribal casinos run by the Seminole Tribe of Florida

• Hard Rock Bet as the only sanctioned online sportsbook

Marshman warned that individuals placing bets on unlicensed platforms not only risk financial loss but could also face legal consequences.

Economic and social impact
The crackdown also underscores Florida’s commitment to ensuring that gaming revenues benefit the state’s residents. Licensed gambling establishments contribute substantial tax revenue, which funds essential programs. In 2024 alone:

• Tax revenue from state-licensed gambling exceeded $240 million

• Funds supported the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund

• The Seminole Tribe committed at least $2.5 billion over the next five years via revenue-sharing

At the same time, problem gambling is becoming a growing concern. The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling reported a more than 50% increase in calls for help in 2024. Experts highlight digital accessibility as a driver, with mobile apps like FanDuel, DraftKings, PrizePicks, and even Hard Rock Bet fueling convenience-driven betting.

The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that:

• 2.5 million Americans suffer from severe gambling addiction

• 5–8 million experience moderate problems

• Excessive gambling can lead to financial distress, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression

Wider recognition of a public health issue
Policymakers are increasingly framing gambling as a public health challenge. The Lancet Public Health Journal has called for stronger government action, while studies, including one by the American Psychological Association in 2023, warn that young adults in their early 20s are the fastest-growing group of gamblers.

Conclusion
Florida’s aggressive stance reflects both a legal and social priority: shutting down unlicensed operators while safeguarding citizens from gambling-related harm. As digital platforms expand, regulators and policymakers face mounting pressure to strike a balance between innovation, revenue generation, and public health protection.