Ohio House Republicans recognize potential of online casinos

Three Ohio House Republicans are trying to move forward the debate on online casinos in the state by submitting a joint letter. So far, the state has been reluctant to expand the iGaming sphere, even though Ohioans have been able to place online sports bets since 2023.

However, Reps. Jay Edwards, Jeff LaRe, and Cindy Abrams are clamoring for the state to change its stance towards the industry to incorporate online casinos and iLottery. The letter, which is part of a study commission on the future of gaming in Ohio, is recommending that online casino legislation should be put on the table in 2025.

Indeed, the letter recognizes the “tremendous potential” that could be gained from legalizing online casinos and iLottery.

It read: “Looking at other states who have implemented either or both iLottery and iGaming, we see significant increases to tax revenues generated with greater participation but also that in-person sales continued to increase. “That can largely be contributed to more people participating in the market on their phones and becoming more comfortable/knowledgeable doing it at a physical location.”

The financial benefits have not been overlooked, with the House Republicans detailing how Connecticut experienced a 44.7% rise in its gaming market in its second year of operating online casinos. Meanwhile, Michigan, which formally launched iGaming in 2021, is the biggest online gaming market in the US.

Key examples mentioned:

• Connecticut: 44.7% growth in gaming market after iGaming launch.

• Michigan: Largest US iGaming market since 2021.

• Ohio: Potential for expansion if law changes in 2025.

Naturally, there has been some pushback from brick-and-mortar establishments in Ohio, who are concerned about the cannibalization of industry by online players. So far, the Senate has been more measured in its approach, and they have stopped short of providing a formal endorsement.

Compared to sports betting, legalizing online casinos across the US has been a hard sell with only seven states offering this service.

Challenges highlighted:

• Resistance from land-based casinos.

• Senate hesitation to support reform.

• Limited national adoption (7 states).

The foundations have been laid for an expansion of iGaming in Ohio, but whether things materialize remains to be seen.

Conclusion:
If Ohio lawmakers embrace online casinos and iLottery in 2025, the state could join other leading iGaming markets — but political caution and industry resistance may slow the path forward.