The battle over legalizing online casinos in Ohio resumed this week.
Lawmakers in Columbus listened to supporters of House Bill 298, which aims to allow Ohioans to play online casino games like poker, roulette, and slots.
Supporters of the bill believe it could generate significant tax revenue for the state, which they argue has been missing out since legalizing physical casinos in 2009. Those in favor also note that many Ohioans already use roughly two dozen illegal gambling websites, and legalizing online gaming would bring those activities under state regulation.
The bill proposes a 28% tax on online gambling, slightly lower than the rate for the state's four physical casinos. Scott Ward from the Sports Betting Alliance justified this difference by explaining to WEWS News that online gaming operates solely as a gambling platform, unlike physical casinos, which have multiple revenue sources.
"A casino is going to have hotel revenue, food revenue, entertainment revenue, all of those things which are taxed at much lower rates by the way than 33% and iGaming simply doesn't have that," Ward said.
Two Online Casino Bills Under Consideration in Ohio
HB 298 is one of two online casino bills being considered in Ohio.
Sen. Nathan Manning is advocating for a bill, SB 197, that would introduce online casinos and lotteries, proposing a 36% tax and a $50 million licensing fee.
He estimates that legalizing these activities could generate between $600 to $900 million annually, once the market matures by redirecting the estimated $2 billion Ohioans spend on illegal gambling sites to a controlled, legal market.
The bill proposes a 36% tax for operators using their platforms, which rises to 40% for those working with external partners like FanDuel or DraftKings.
If enacted, this would make Ohio's iGaming tax rate the highest for an open market in the country, surpassed only by the limited market operations in Rhode Island and New Hampshire. Supporters of the legislation like the potential to generate additional annual revenue.
Both S.B. 197 and HB 298 would consolidate all gambling regulations in Ohio under the Ohio Casino Control Commission. This change would eliminate the State Racing Commission, with its duties being transferred to the Casino Control Commission. Internet gambling would also start by March 31.
Pastors Oppose Ohio Online Casinos
Not everyone is on board with the idea of legalizing online casinos in Ohio. Opponents argue that allowing casino games to be played on mobile devices at any time and from any location could exacerbate issues with gambling addiction.
According to the Statehouse News Bureau, more than 100 pastors and religious leaders, including Rep. Gary Click, oppose the expansion of gambling, arguing it harms the state’s most vulnerable populations—those with low education, low income, and high debt. Click believes that legalizing online gambling will damage families and lives.
Vegas Insider reports that Delaware became the first state to legalize online casinos back in 2012. Ohio would join a handful of states that have already made the move.
Governor Mike DeWine has not taken a clear stance on Ohio's online casino bill, indicating he will review it before making any decisions.
Sweepstakes Casino Games Available in Ohio Online
While Ohio lawmakers debate the future of online casino gaming, residents of the Buckeye State still have a legal option to enjoy these games through sweepstakes casinos.
Sweepstakes casinos allow players to participate in a variety of casino-style games like slots and poker without wagering real money. Instead, players use virtual currencies, often called sweeps coins and gold coins, which can be obtained for free or purchased. Sweeps coins can sometimes be redeemed for cash prizes, making these platforms a popular alternative for those eager to play online while staying within legal boundaries.
Just remember, if you do decide to try your luck, always gamble responsibly.
