Ohio Governor DeWine Draws Hard Line Against Online Casinos
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has firmly stated his opposition to legalizing online casinos, citing fears of widespread gambling addiction. His stance sets up a major political showdown with state lawmakers who are eyeing hundreds of millions in potential tax revenue from iGaming.
A “Veto-Worthy” Proposal
Speaking at the Ohio State Fair, DeWine made his position clear, stating he is “very much against” any plan to expand online gambling in the state.
He argued that putting a casino “in everybody’s hands, 24/7” is a dangerous proposition that would lead to “more pain and suffering” from gambling addiction.
“I’m not for it,” DeWine said, sharpening his previous, milder concerns about the issue. When asked if he would veto an online casino bill, the governor responded, “Well, I don’t usually use the ‘V-word.’ But, you know, I’m very much against this.”
His opposition comes just two years after he signed a bill legalizing sports betting, signaling he views iGaming as a much greater risk.
A Massive Financial Incentive for Lawmakers
Despite the governor’s strong opposition, the Ohio legislature sees a massive financial opportunity. Lawmakers in both the House and Senate have introduced bills (HB 298 and SB 197) that would allow Ohio’s casinos and racinos to offer online slots and table games.
The motivation is clear: money. Estimates suggest that legalizing iGaming could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new annual tax revenue for the state.
Even more immediate, the proposed licensing fees could bring in an instant windfall of between $550 million and $1.1 billion. This presents a tempting alternative for lawmakers looking to raise funds without increasing general taxes.
Not everyone in the legislature is rushing to pass a bill. Senate President Rob McColley has expressed a more cautious view, stating, “We would rather take the time to get this right, if we are going to do it at all.” This suggests a more measured debate will take place before any bill reaches the governor’s desk.
DeWine is not alone in his concerns. More than 100 Ohio pastors and religious leaders have voiced their strong opposition to iGaming. They argue it would prey on the state’s most vulnerable citizens by turning every home into a casino, calling it “morally indefensible” for the state to fund itself with citizens’ losses.
A Constitutional Hurdle Looms
Even if a bill manages to navigate the political landscape and a potential veto, it faces another significant challenge: the Ohio Constitution.
The state’s constitution explicitly allows for only three types of gambling: the state lottery, casinos, and charitable bingo.
This means any law to legalize online casinos would almost certainly be challenged in court. The legal battle would determine whether iGaming can be considered an extension of existing casino operations or if it represents a new form of gambling that requires a constitutional amendment.
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