Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has voiced concerns about two proposals being considered in the state legislature that would legalize online poker, online casinos, and other forms of internet gambling. DeWine, speaking at a business group meeting near Cleveland, talked about the potential for mass addiction to gambling, particularly among the state's youth, if the bills were enacted.
Key Takeaways
- Two Ohio bills propose regulated online gambling with weekly limits and casino-licensed digital operators only
- Governor DeWine has warned that legalized iGaming could increase addiction risks, especially among young people
- Browns’ stadium funding debate overlaps with iGaming talks, including proposals for increased sports betting taxes
According to a report from local media, DeWine focused on the scope and accessibility of internet-based gambling, stating that mobile access would turn every smartphone into a virtual casino. He cautioned that round-the-clock availability is a significant threat to public health and safety.
Although the governor sidestepped a straightforward response to whether he would veto the iGaming legislation introduced, he provided the suggestion that the matter under discussion should not be treated lightly.
DeWine's sentiments were echoed by House Speaker Matt Huffman, who also was concerned about the addictiveness of online gambling. Huffman noted how simple it would be for someone to gamble from home and lose a significant amount of money.
Despite his misgivings, Huffman acknowledged that some expansion of internet gambling is inevitable. He declined to say, however, what parts of the bills under consideration might have his support. Instead, he indicated that House-Senate negotiations would dictate the final outcome, and that DeWine's stance would also be an important factor in legislative deliberations.
Supporters of iGaming legalization argue the activity is already prevalent in Ohio via illegal, unregulated websites. They argue bringing it under a legal framework would allow for consumer protections, including mandatory age verification to prevent underage gaming, and tap a new source of state revenue through taxation.
Effort to legalize iGaming continue despite resistance
Two pieces of legislation were proposed in the legislature last month. The Senate bill would permit verified adults to bet as much as $500 a week and limit their gambling to five hours weekly.
It also paves the way for internet wagering on horse races, Ohio Lottery internet games, and internet purchasing of Powerball and Mega Millions tickets.
The House bill is more limited, allowing internet slot machines and table games such as poker, roulette, and craps. The bills both stipulate that licenses for internet gambling could be granted only to Ohio's four casinos and seven racinos, but the operators could partner with vendors to run their online sites.
The debate on the legalization of online gambling is occurring concurrently with other finance-oriented debates within the state legislature, such as the financing of professional sports stadiums. DeWine has proposed doubling the tax on Ohio sports betting operators as a way of creating a pool of money for the building of stadiums.
The House version of the state budget now includes a provision to sell $600 million of bonds to help pay for the stadium, to be repaid with state tax receipts from the Brook Park site.
DeWine wouldn't comment on whether he likes that specific funding approach but said he's looking for a "holistic solution" that can help all of Ohio's professional sports teams and not just the Browns.
