Ohio may not come to mind first when thinking of American gambling hubs, yet the state still plays an integral part in the industry and generates considerable revenues through gaming taxes alone – in 2017 Ohio made over $500 Million dollars just from gambling alone! This can be attributed to Ohio’s four land-based casinos and seven racinos which provide various Vegas-style casino games.
Ohio may not currently host any real money online gambling sites, but that may change soon. Studies show that states which do not legalize online gambling often lose revenue to illegal sites. There are two possible pathways through which Ohio might bring real money online casino and sports betting: passing legislation making it legal or adding it directly onto ballots so voters may decide.
Ohio’s gambling laws were put in place in 2009 when voters approved commercial casinos in Ohio, leading to 11 gambling establishments being licensed, regulated and investigated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission – this body also enforces Ohio’s gambling laws.
At one point in time, there was much discussion as to whether online gambling should be permitted in New Jersey. Some viewed it as a threat to traditional casino businesses while others saw an opportunity for increasing state revenue through this form of betting. After much debate, a decision was reached in favor of permitting it and its first casino launched online gaming operations in 2021.
Following the legalization of online casinos in Ohio, lawmakers decided to legalize sports betting. House Bill 29 was passed and signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine on December 20, 2021; Ohio sportsbooks began accepting wagers beginning New Year’s Day of 2023.
As with other states that have legalized sports gambling, Ohio has its own set of regulations governing its industry. The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) oversees all persons involved with sports gambling – bettors or proprietors alike. Bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically present within Ohio to place bets, while proprietors must offer multiple betting markets including pro/college football/basketball/baseball/hockey/horse racing/soccer/golf. Furthermore, Ohio has implemented a self-exclusion program which applies statewide for its gamblers.