Ohio Advances Toward Legalizing Online Poker and Casino Games
The state of Ohio continues to move forward with efforts to legalize online poker and casino games. Recently, House Bill 96 was introduced in the Ohio Senate as part of an initiative to broaden gambling options within the state. The bill, which aims to expand beyond traditional sports betting, has already passed through the House and is now in the early review stages in the Senate. Rep. Brian Stewart is the driving force behind the legislation, advocating for increased gambling opportunities as a means to boost revenue for Ohio.
Meanwhile, lawmakers in Connecticut are also examining potential changes to the state’s gaming laws through Senate Bill 1235. This bill is currently listed on the legislative calendar as a matter under consideration. If enacted, SB 1235 would clarify and redefine certain gaming-related terms, and it would prohibit the resale of lottery tickets and the operation of ticket courier services. The bill also proposes modifications to the Department of Consumer Protection’s (DCP) authority, particularly concerning the disciplinary powers of the Commissioner of Consumer Protection over specific gaming licenses.
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On a broader national level, the landscape of sports betting in the United States has significantly evolved since the US Supreme Court overturned the federal ban nearly seven years ago. Since that decision, 38 states have established legal and regulated sports betting markets, with additional states currently working through their regulatory processes. Regarding online gaming, seven states have legalized some form of it, although access varies—some states permit only online poker or limited gaming options. These states include Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and West Virginia, where online gaming is now permitted under state law. Ohio Poker Casino
