Ohio lawmakers launch new online gambling bill
Two House Republicans in the Ohio state legislature have launched a new bill that would legalize online gambling in the state, just a week after another online gambling bill, SB197, was introduced.
The new bill, HB298, would give the state’s casinos and racinos permission to offer online gambling for slots and table games. Unlike SB197, however, it would not legalize online lottery products or horse racing wagers.
The new proposal, brought forward by Reps. Brian Stewart and Marilyn John would tax internet gaming companies at 28%. In comparison, SB197 proposes a 36% tax, rising to 40% if the casino or racino partners with a management company to operate their igaming platform.
While the bills differ in their approach and extent, both are expected to bring in hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue every year due to taxing gross gaming receipts and the proposed eight-figure licensing fees.
Speaking about HB298, Rep. Brian Stewart emphasized that it was an obvious step to take, given that the state already has in-person casino gambling.
Stewart said, “We believe that given the significant financial upside to the state, it’s reasonable to take the next logical step, technological step, and allow Ohioans to play these games online as well as in person.”
Neither bill provides details on where the tax revenue generated from online gaming would go, beyond stating that 1% of the money raised would be used to fund programs to tackle gambling addiction.
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Charlotte Capewell brings her passion for storytelling and expertise in writing, researching, and the gambling industry to every article she writes. Her specialties include the US gambling industry, regulator legislation, igaming, and more.
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