Only those companies who apply for, and are granted "state" controlled licenses are allowed to operate under the control of the government. Private, independent bookies are not allowed (and whoever they consider to be "organized crime" related bookies at definitely not allowed). "Off-Shore" handbooks who accept bets internationally are also banned. And any local "America" based gamblers who interact with off-shore companies are violating local, state, and federal laws.

In other words the U.S. Government (big brother) wants their piece of the pie. Tax wise and profit wise....essentially its a shakedown.