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Ohio lawmakers are pushing forward with two separate bills aimed at bringing regulated online casino gaming to the Buckeye State. The move represents a significant expansion of the state’s digital gambling market.
Senate Bill 197, introduced by Republican Senator Nathan Manning of North Ridgeville, would establish comprehensive internet gambling regulations under the Ohio Casino Control Commission. The bill would consolidate all gambling oversight by eliminating the State Racing Commission and transferring horse racing regulation to the casino authority. Manning’s proposal would impose a 36% tax rate on existing casino operators who launch online platforms. New operators using third-party platforms would face a 40% tax rate.
Residents currently have access to various exciting Ohio friendly casino sites through offshore platforms while the state works toward establishing its own regulated market. These safe, offshore-based online casinos accept players from the Buckeye State and offer comprehensive gaming experiences including slots, table games, and live dealer options that work seamlessly for Ohio players.
Representatives Brian Stewart of Ashville and Marilyn John of Richland County have introduced House Bill 298, which takes a more focused approach. The House version would regulate online slots and table games but excludes lottery products and horse race betting. This bill proposes a 28% tax rate, matching Michigan’s current structure. Supporters estimate it could generate between $400 million and $800 million annually in new revenue for the state.
The bills limit online casino licenses to Ohio’s four casinos and seven racinos. Anyone wanting to play must be 21 or older and stay within Ohio borders. The legislation sets March 31 as a target launch date, but regulatory reviews could change this timeline. Tax money goes mostly to the state’s general fund.
House Bill 298 would also address unregulated sweepstakes platforms currently operating in the state. Senate Bill 197 includes player protection features such as deposit limits and session time controls.
The bills have attracted support from gaming industry representatives who highlight the economic benefits of regulated online gaming. Trevor Hayes from Caesars Digital testified that regulated iGaming provides significant tax revenue while offering consumers a strictly regulated gaming option with proper oversight.
Ohio’s four brick-and-mortar casinos brought in $204.1 million during August alone, showing strong public interest in gaming entertainment. The new online bills would extend this success into digital territory.
States like Michigan have seen their online casino sectors outperform mobile sports betting in monthly tax collections. Pennsylvania and West Virginia also report solid returns from their digital gaming programs. Currently, only seven states have legalized online casino gaming, making Ohio’s potential entry into this market particularly significant for operators and the gaming industry.
The proposed licensing would create 11 spots total, matching Ohio’s current casino and racino count. Each facility could operate one online platform, protecting existing business investments. With nearly 12 million residents, Ohio represents a substantial market for digital gaming companies. The state already hosts successful sports betting operations that launched in 2023.
The bills set aside money for player protection programs and allocate tax funds for support services. Meeting the March 31 target date would require swift legislative and regulatory action.