Online gambling expansion in Ohio: Proposed legislation may bring virtual poker and casino games to the digital realm imminently.
Ohio's Push for Online Gaming: A Fresh Approach
Looks like the Buckeye State might be shaking things up in the gambling world! Rep. Brian Stewart, chaired of the House Finance Committee, is working on a new bill that could bring online gaming to Ohio beyond sports betting. This legislation could allow Ohioans to play virtual poker or other casino games on their phones or laptops anytime.
Stewart aims to generate some extra revenue for Ohio with this legislation. He's no stranger to shaping state budgets, sponsoring House Bill 96, the House version of the two-year state budget.
Interestingly, Republicans approved a budget proposal in 20XX after making major changes, including stripping out a doubling of the tax on sports gambling operators to create a sports facilities fund.
Whaatsup with iGaming in Ohio?
While Ohio has been on the move in the broader U.S. gambling expansion landscape, the situation with online gambling, specifically online poker and casino games, hasn't progressed much as of May 2025.
Last year, Ohio held hearings that were set to pave the way for iGaming expansion in 2025. However, as of early May 2025, there's no significant iGaming bill making its way through the Ohio legislature. The state isn't listed among the few with active iGaming proposals as of recent nationwide trackers.
In comparison, regulated online casinos are currently available in just seven states, with Rhode Island joining the ranks in 2024. Other states are considering iGaming legislation, but Ohio isn't among them at this time.
A Quick Comparison
Ohio has legalized online sports betting, and apps like Fliff—a social sportsbook—are available and legal in the state. However, iGaming, which covers online poker and casino games, is still not permitted in Ohio.
Here's the Lowdown
As of May 2025, Ohio has not progressed any major iGaming or online poker legislation in 2025. Currently, only online sports betting and certain social sportsbook apps are legal in the state, not full online casino or poker options.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting potential expansion in Ohio's gambling landscape!
Despite the Buckeye State's efforts in expanding online gaming, as of May 2025, there's no significant iGaming bill progressing through the Ohio legislature, unlike the legalization of online sports betting in Ohio. operator finance can be expected to move forward with online sports betting apps, but not yet casino-and-gambling games, which requires legislation. Rep. Brian Stewart, with past experience in shaping state budgets, is hoping to generate extra revenue for Ohio by legalizing iGaming.
