Ohio State Representative Brigid Kelly has taken a bold step in the world of online gaming by filing a bill that would legalize and regulate iGaming in the state. The bill, known as HB 196, aims to bring online gambling to Ohio and could potentially generate millions of dollars in revenue for the state.
The proposed legislation would allow licensed operators to offer a variety of online casino games, such as slots, poker, and blackjack, to Ohio residents who are 21 years of age or older. The bill also includes provisions for player protections, responsible gaming measures, and strict regulations to ensure the integrity of the games.
Representative Kelly, a Democrat from Cincinnati, believes that legalizing iGaming could help bolster the state’s economy and provide much-needed funding for education, infrastructure, and other essential services. She also believes that regulating online gambling is the best way to protect consumers and prevent problem gambling.
In a statement, Representative Kelly said, “With the rise of online gaming in neighboring states, it’s time for Ohio to join the 21st century and regulate this industry. By legalizing iGaming, we can create jobs, generate revenue, and provide a safe and secure gaming environment for Ohioans.”
Supporters of the bill also argue that legalizing iGaming would help curb the growth of unregulated offshore gambling sites, which can be risky for consumers and difficult to regulate. By bringing online gambling into the light of day, Ohio can ensure that players are protected and that operators are held to high standards of fairness and transparency.
However, the bill is likely to face opposition from some lawmakers and anti-gambling groups, who argue that legalizing online gambling could lead to an increase in problem gambling and other social issues. Critics also worry that online casinos could cannibalize revenue from the state’s existing brick-and-mortar casinos and racetracks.
Despite the potential roadblocks, Representative Kelly is optimistic about the prospects for HB 196. She plans to work with her colleagues in the Ohio General Assembly to build support for the bill and ultimately pass it into law.
If HB 196 is successful, Ohio would join a growing number of states that have legalized online gambling in recent years, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. With the popularity of online gaming on the rise, it seems that the digital age of gambling is here to stay – and Ohio is poised to be at the forefront of this exciting new frontier.
