Opponents and supporters are making the bill’s progress difficult
A bill aiming to legalize online casino gaming in Ohio is encountering stiff resistance as lawmakers continue to weigh the proposal’s broader impact. During a three-hour hearing on May 29, the Ohio Senate’s Select Committee on Gaming heard testimony from more than 40 individuals, the majority either opposing the bill outright or requesting significant revisions.
Senate Bill 197, which would authorize online slots and table games, is the latest effort to expand the state’s gambling industry. The proposed law includes a $50 million licensing fee and a tax rate between 36% and 40% on gross online casino revenue. These high costs have sparked criticism from both potential operators and brick-and-mortar casino representatives.
So far, only two companies—Fanatics and Rush Street Interactive—have spoken directly in favor of the bill, though both called for reduced fees and taxes. Fanatics representative Brandt Iden suggested the bill increase the number of available licenses from 11 to 22, to allow more competition.
Several casino operators with a physical presence in Ohio expressed concerns about job losses and declining in-person revenue. Miami Valley Gaming spoke against the bill, joining a list of other gaming interests worried that online offerings will cut into existing business. Hard Rock and PENN Entertainment offered neutral stances but pushed for changes.
The bill also drew criticism from groups outside the gaming industry. Representatives from Ohio bars, restaurants, veterans’ organizations, and grocery stores voiced concerns over online lottery ticket sales and a lack of support for video lottery terminals, which they view as essential to their own operations.
Religious and anti-gambling organizations warned lawmakers about the potential rise in problem gambling linked to expanded access through mobile devices.
With no vote scheduled and divisions among supporters, opponents, and “interested parties,” the future of online casino legalization in Ohio remains uncertain. Lawmakers have not announced when the next steps will be taken.
