Governor of Ohio stands against the legalization of internet-based gambling
Ohio's legislative efforts to legalize online casino gambling are currently underway, but are facing strong opposition from Governor Mike DeWine. DeWine's concerns revolve around responsible gambling and addiction risks[1][5].
Two main bills are being considered in Ohio's legislature. HB 298, led by House Finance Committee Chair Brian Stewart, proposes 11 licenses tied to existing Ohio casinos and racinos, a 28% tax on online casino revenues, and measures such as banning credit card deposits and online-specific promotions[1][5]. On the other hand, SB 197, by Sen. Nathan Manning, would allow outside operators with higher tax rates and large licensing fees[1][5].
Proponents of online casinos estimate that they could generate between $400 million and $800 million annually for Ohio, helping to build on the momentum from legal sports betting launched in 2023[1]. However, some Ohio casino operators, including JACK Entertainment, Churchill Downs, and Penn Entertainment, have lobbied against the bills, reflecting industry divisions[5].
Governor DeWine's opposition appears to be partly rooted in concerns over irresponsible gambling and addiction, which also shape legislation to include consumer protections like prohibiting credit card deposits[1]. Ohio residents currently can access offshore online casinos, but these come with significant risks due to the lack of regulation and consumer protections[2].
The governor has not ruled out the possibility of vetoing an online casino proposal, but has expressed caution about issuing a veto[5]. As of mid-2025, the legislative session has not advanced legalization decisively, with some related bills stalling or being declared dead for the year, and the legislative environment remaining uncertain[4][5].
Not everyone agrees with Governor DeWine's stance on online casinos. Rep. Brian Stewart, a sponsor in the House of Representatives, argues in favor of online casino legalization, citing that Ohio already offers various forms of gambling[1]. Boyd Gaming's Ryan Soultz suggests adapting and evolving rather than trying to suppress innovation in the online casino sector[3]. Soultz also states that Boyd Gaming, which operates online casinos in 11 states, has not experienced negative impacts on its results[3].
In contrast, DeWine has stated that he believes putting a casino in everyone's hands 24/7 could lead to more gambling addiction[4]. DeWine's statement was cited by local media[6]. Despite the decrease in problem gambling reported by the National Council on Problem Gambling, some sources remain concerned about the potential increase with mass online casino legalization[1].
In summary, Ohio’s online casino legalization efforts are active but contentious, facing gubernatorial opposition and industry lobbying, with a strong legislative focus on balancing tax revenues and consumer protections against gambling addiction concerns[1][5]. The governor's opposition may present a significant hurdle to their legalization in Ohio.
- The ongoing legislative debates in Ohio regarding online casino gambling are predominantly driven by Governor Mike DeWine's concerns about gambling addiction and responsible gambling practices.
- Proponents of online casinos, such as Rep. Brian Stewart and Ryan Soultz from Boyd Gaming, argue that Ohio's existing forms of gambling already warrant online casino legalization, citing positive impacts in other states.
- The potential legalization of online casinos in Ohio is facing a significant hurdle due to Governor DeWine's concerns about the potential increase in gambling addiction, despite reported decreases in problem gambling nationwide.
