Legal Online Casinos in Ohio Unlikely Anytime Soon

Efforts to legalize online casinos (iGaming) in the Ohio Legislature are likely dead this year as they face resistance from some of the state’s highest lawmakers, including Gov. Mike DeWine and House Speaker Matt Huffman.

Last week, Huffman said that Ohio has experienced “extraordinary” gambling expansion in recent years. He added that he doesn’t envision lawmakers approving additional forms of internet gambling in the next year.

“At some point, there is a saturation point—there’s a group of people who don’t gamble, there’s a group of people who do, maybe some people participate in different ways,” Huffman told reporters.

At the 2025 Ohio State Fair, Governor DeWine echoed that sentiment, saying: “Basically, to put a casino in everybody’s hands, 24/7, I think is probably not a great idea. And I think it will cause more pain and suffering …as far as gaming addiction.”

The remarks effectively shut the door—at least for now—on iGaming discussions that began earlier this year as part of a broader debate over state revenues and gambling harm.

Two iGaming Bills, No Momentum

Two bills aimed at creating a regulated iGaming market remain active in the legislative session. However, they have seen no progress in the initial committees.

Sen. Nathan Manning introduced Senate Bill 197 in May. It would allow up to 11 online casino brands with a tax rate between 36% and 40%. The difference lies in whether the licensees operate the online platform directly (have at least 50% ownership) or through a partner (e.g., DraftKings or FanDuel).

A week later, Rep. Brian Stewart proposed HB 298 in the House. The measure calls for a 28% tax on iGaming revenue and prohibits third-party operators without a retail presence in Ohio. That means popular platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings would be ineligible. It also includes a provision banning sweepstakes casinos.

Supporters of legalization argue that Ohio is missing out on hundreds of millions of dollars in potential tax revenue. At the same time, unregulated iGaming captures much of the state’s iGaming demand.

One report suggests illegal operators generate roughly $5.26 billion annually from Ohioans. That equates to about 85% of the state’s total online gambling activity. Proponents argue that a legal, taxed market could generate $400 million to $800 million annually and enhance consumer protections.

Lawmakers proposed adding an iGaming framework to the state budget earlier this year. But those plans ultimately failed to make the final cut. Huffman’s comments suggest that arguments about lost revenue are unlikely to gain traction in 2025.

Governor’s Consistent Opposition

Governor DeWine has been a consistent opponent of iGaming expansion, warning that legal iGaming could exacerbate gambling addiction. In July, he said the state “probably has enough gambling.” He emphasized concerns about “a casino in everybody’s hands.”

While he’s supported tax increases on sports betting, DeWine has also pushed for stricter rules. Earlier this year, he called for a ban on prop bets after an MLB investigation into Cleveland Guardians players highlighted integrity concerns.

The governor’s concerns align with those of faith groups, unions, and mental health advocates. They have cited addiction risks as the primary reason to oppose further gambling expansion. In May, a group of 100 pastors, mental health professionals, and anti-gambling advocates issued a joint letter urging lawmakers to reject online casinos.

Some data backs their concerns. One report notes that calls to Ohio’s gambling help hotline rose significantly following the launch of legal sports betting in January 2023.

Meanwhile, a 2022 survey found that about one in five Ohioans was at risk of developing gambling-related problems. Critics argue that allowing online casinos would worsen those numbers and strain addiction-treatment resources.

What’s Next

With Governor DeWine’s term ending in 2027, iGaming proponents might have to wait for a renewed push under the next administration. Any future effort will likely hinge on a shift in political leadership or a mounting argument that regulating an already thriving offshore market could protect consumers and generate much-needed revenue.

For now, iGaming expansion remains on the back burner as Ohio officials prioritize tightening existing gambling regulations rather than creating new ones.