Ohio Statehouse Proposes Legalizing Online Gambling with New iGaming Bill

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A new bill, Senate Bill 312, has been introduced at the Ohio Statehouse proposing the legalization of "iGaming," which would allow Ohioans to engage in online gambling activities. The bill, sponsored by Senator Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg), aims to extend the state's gambling offerings by legalizing online versions of popular casino games.

“I think that this is the next progression of gaming in Ohio,” Antani stated, expressing his belief that the state’s gambling industry should evolve to include digital platforms. The bill mandates that the Ohio Casino Control Commission contract with licensed casinos to oversee which games can be legally played online. According to Antani, the games likely to be included are poker, roulette, slot machines, blackjack, and various other card and table games.

While the bill has garnered some bipartisan support, not all stakeholders are convinced. David Corey, executive vice president of the Bowling Centers Association of Ohio, voiced concerns that the proposal could harm brick-and-mortar businesses. “It is definitely worrisome for our clients,” Corey said, highlighting the potential negative impact on jobs and physical locations. He drew parallels to the introduction of online sports betting, which he claims unfairly cornered the market and disadvantaged traditional businesses.

In response, Antani argued that the bill merely offers an additional entertainment option for Ohioans, akin to other mobile games or streaming services. “This is simply another entertainment option on people’s phones,” he explained, emphasizing that it wouldn’t directly compete with physical establishments.

Corey, however, remains skeptical, insisting that the hospitality industry should also benefit from any expansion of gambling. He suggested that without provisions for brick-and-mortar locations, such as an expansion of gambling kiosks, the hospitality sector would strongly oppose the bill. “We will fight this tooth and nail until you give something to the bricks-and-mortar locations,” Corey asserted.

Senate Bill 312 also proposes a 15% tax rate on iGaming, which is lower than the current 20% tax on online sports betting in Ohio. While discussions around legalizing online gambling have been ongoing, the bill is still in its early stages and is not expected to have its first hearing until November.

Senator Antani emphasized the need for regulation in a market where Ohioans are already participating illegally. “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 and it’s time to legalize this practice.”