Ohio Bill Proposes Legalization of Online Gambling Through iGaming

Senate Bill 312 Introduces iGaming to Ohio

Sponsored by Senator Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg), the proposed legislation would authorize the Ohio Casino Control Commission to partner with licensed casinos to determine which online games, such as poker, roulette, and slot machines, would be legally allowed.

“I think this is the next progression of gaming in Ohio,” said Antani, emphasizing that popular casino games, including blackjack and table games, could soon be available for Ohioans to play from their phones.

Opposition from the Hospitality Industry

While there is bipartisan support for iGaming, not everyone is on board. David Corey, Executive Vice President of the Bowling Centers Association of Ohio, expressed concerns that online gambling could negatively impact brick-and-mortar businesses. He worries that iGaming would reduce foot traffic to physical gaming establishments, resulting in potential job losses.

“It’s hard to tell what the impact would be on the jobs front, but we know it can’t be good — taking people out of locations, keeping them in their homes on their phones,” Corey said. He added that previous promises of an even playing field with online sports betting fell short, with online operators quickly dominating the market.

Corey and others in the hospitality industry are pushing for a compromise, such as expanding the use of gambling kiosks in physical locations, to ensure that brick-and-mortar businesses benefit from the expansion of gambling. “We will fight this tooth and nail until you give something to the bricks and mortar locations,” he said.

Regulating a Growing Market

In defense of the bill, Antani argues that iGaming is already happening illegally through the black market, and legalizing the practice would provide a safer, regulated environment. “People want iGaming,” he said. “They do it illegally now. They do it on the black market. I believe we should be able to do it safely and in a regulated way.”

Senate Bill 312 proposes a 15% tax rate on iGaming, 5% lower than the current tax rate for online sports betting in Ohio. Although lawmakers have been discussing the potential for iGaming for several months, the bill is still in its early stages. The first hearing for the bill is expected in November.

If passed, this legislation could expand Ohio’s gaming landscape, but the debate over balancing online and brick-and-mortar interests will likely continue as the bill moves through the legislative process.