The debate over online casinos in Ohio is intensifying following the introduction of a new bill to legalize online gaming in the state.
Rep. Brian Stewart, chair of the House Finance Committee, is leading the effort with House Bill 96. It would expand the Buckeye State's current gambling laws to include these online games.
If passed, the law would let anyone in Ohio 21 and older play poker or other casino games online using their phones or computers whenever they want. According to Vegas Insider, Delaware became the first state to legalize online casinos back in 2012.
The Goal of Ohio's Online Casino Bill
The goal of HB 96 is to generate significant revenue for Ohio's educational needs.
This initiative follows a state report suggesting online gambling could boost revenue without hurting traditional casinos. Lawmakers believe tax revenue from online gambling can support K–12 education and other public services.
Three Republican lawmakers from the panel reported that states that legalized online gaming or online lotteries, or both, saw a notable boost in tax revenue because more people participated. However, Reps. Jeff LaRe, Cindy Abrams, and former Rep. Jay Edwards pointed out that sales from in-person lottery games also increased.
Ohio Online Casino Legalization Efforts Not New
Rep. Stewart's proposal continues a discussion that began with earlier bills.
The push to expand gambling in Ohio gained traction after sports betting was legalized in 2022. This law, driven by former Ohio Senator Niraj Antani, also introduced a proposal for online casinos, which linked licenses to the state’s 11 casinos.
Antani's plan, Senate Bill 312, would have allowed each of Ohio’s 11 casinos to operate one online platform. It suggested an oversight framework by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), a 15% tax rate—which is lower than that for sports betting—and included licensing fees and measures for problem gambling.
Even after Antani left office, the momentum for legalizing online casinos persisted.
His proposal, although not passed, initiated meaningful legislative discussions.
Supporters of online casino expansion, including major operators like Caesars, PENN Entertainment, and MGM Resorts, point to the potential for increased tax revenue without negatively affecting lottery sales. Despite some concerns from the Ohio Lottery about online sports betting impacts, there remains strong backing for expanded gaming from retail casinos and other stakeholders.
The Future of Online Casinos in Ohio
In addition to changing gambling laws, Rep. Stewart has proposed another bill to address the state budget. With Governor Mike DeWine's recent attempts to raise taxes, including those on gambling, the timing of House Bill 96 is significant.
The budget plan has undergone several revisions, dropping proposals like doubling the sports betting tax to 40%. However, it did not include an income tax cut, which has been part of the last seven state budgets.
As debates continue, Ohio's lawmakers face a critical decision regarding House Bill 96. With oversight by the OCCC, the potential economic benefits could usher in a new era of legal online gambling in the state. While the journey to legalize online casino and poker games in Ohio is ongoing, each step brings the state closer to this reality.
Sweepstakes Casinos Available in Ohio
Ohio offers many gambling options, including online sports betting and casinos in cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, Toledo, and Dayton. Although online casino legalization is still being discussed, some other options are available in the state.
To fill this gap, Ohio residents can use social and sweepstakes casinos online. These websites let you play games for fun or purchase in-game currency that could lead to cash prizes.
Sites like Clubs Poker, Pulsz Casino, and WOW Vegas are available for players aged 18 and older and feature a variety of games, including slots and table games.
Ohio seems to be moving closer to legalizing online casinos, despite some remaining hurdles. As discussions advance, it's important for everyone involved to carefully address these challenges to make legalization happen.
