Ohio Online Casino Bill to Have First Hearing in November

The Buckeye State is known for its fervent sports fans who frequent various sports events and partake in sports betting. But when it comes to the availability of online casinos in Ohio, unfortunately, it is still illegal – players can't access the best online casinos, and would resort to social casinos such as BetRivers.net, or head onto neighboring states that allow online casinos like Michigan, Pennsylvania, or West Virginia.

This is where the Ohio Online Casino Bill comes into play. Also known as SB 312, this bill is set to lay the groundwork for the establishment of an online casino market within the state.

What Steps Have Been Made with SB 312?

SB 312 was introduced in the Ohio Legislature in September by Senator Niraj Antani. The bill draws heavily on fellow states that have already rolled out their online casino operations. Part of its proponents is the proposition of a 15% tax rate for iGaming, which is lower than the 20% tax rate levied on various sports betting sites. 

Moreover, the bill also seeks to apply a $100,000 application fee, and a $30,000 licensing fee, along with a separate fee to the tune of $250,000 that will be paid outright to support the state's problem gambling fund. 

Ohio is known as a major proponent in providing assistance to individuals who are struggling with gambling addiction. Recently, the Buckeye State undertook measures to make its problem gambling support more inclusive and accessible.

Such initiatives include the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO), which provides accessible mental health support for individuals struggling with gambling-related issues. Meanwhile, the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network (OGTN) is a telehealth system designed to provide free mental health support to Ohio residents dealing with problem gambling disorders or concerns.

Both services endeavor to bridge the gap in mental health care accessibility, particularly for those living in areas without local access to qualified gambling counselors

The licensing arrangement duration will be for one year, and for prospective online casino operators who operate the best bitcoin casino sites to continue their iGaming in the Buckeye State, they will have to renew their license $550,000 annually.

It is expected that the 15% tax rate would be a contentious issue for any lawmakers who are still hesitant about the measure. Meanwhile, the licensing fees might be a talking point for potential online casino operators to inquire about.

That said, in the event that SB 312 is passed, the Ohio Casino Control Commission will regulate the new industry and will have to monitor their residents who play casino games online.

Legislative Challenges with SB 312

SB 312 has a challenging path towards being approved by the legislature. First off, Senator Antani is serving out his last term as a state senator and he won't be returning in 2025. 

A lame-duck session is due to begin after the elections in November conclude. Senator Atani will have to persuade lawmakers with a longer stint than his to be on board to back the bill, and more importantly, to see a representative spearhead SB 312 through next year's legislative session.

Although discussions about online gambling have been active between Ohioan lawmakers, SB 312's introduction last September would give its first hearing in November. Legislative sessions are set to resume November 13. The schedule of the hearings are as follows:

Date	Schedule
November 13, 2024	Senate session
November 19, 2024	Senate committee hearings
November 20, 2024	Senate and House sessions
December 3, 2024	Senate committee hearings; House session (if needed)
December 4, 2024	Senate and House sessions
December 10, 2024	Senate committee hearings; House session (if needed)
December 11, 2024	Senate and House sessions
December 17, 2024	Senate committee hearings
December 18, 2024	Senate and House sessions
December 19, 2024	House session (if needed)

Senator Antani is also positioning Ohio to be ready in the event of online casino operators wanting to participate in multi-state poker pools. Platforms in Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey and West Virginia offer such pools. Pennsylvania is also on the verge of joining.

What Happens Next with SB 312?

Given that the upcoming November elections would be the main focus of most lawmakers across the country, SB 312 will hopefully come into the forefront once the Senate sessions return on November 13, 2024.

Senator Antani would need to flex his influence to garner enough support to get the ball rolling. However, Senator Antani would have to contend with prominent figures in the Buckeye State who opposed gambling that includes Governor Mike DeWine, whose term runs through 2027.

As Governor, DeWine can veto the bill should it pass the legislature. But that said, DeWine could still be brought on board, if Senator Antani and other like-minded lawmakers manage to convince him that SB 312 will greatly benefit the Buckeye State.