Citing worries about addiction, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine reiterated his opposition to the legalization of online casinos. The debate over the potential social and economic costs of increasing access to digital gambling is getting more heated as lawmakers consider two bills that would regulate and tax the industry.
Governor Mike DeWine has made it clear that he opposes Ohio’s legalization of online casino gaming.
This week, DeWine told Cleveland.com, “I’m not for it.” “It’s probably not a good idea to put a casino in everyone’s hands, all the time. When it comes to addiction, namely gambling addiction, I believe it will result in more misery.
Legislators in Ohio are now debating Senate Bill 197 and House Bill 298, two different proposals pertaining to internet casinos. Neither, though, has progressed past committee hearings. DeWine’s remarks mirrored words he has previously used, most notably during a hearing for HB 298 presented by Rep. Brian Stewart on June 3.
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Discussions in other states are reflected in the current debate. Proponents highlight the possibility of tax income and regulatory monitoring for the current uncontrolled internet gaming industry. DeWine and other opponents highlight the hazards to society as a whole, the possible cannibalization of retail casinos, and the perils of addiction.
“I don’t usually use the ‘V-word,'” DeWine responded when asked if he would veto a law if it came to his desk. However, you know that I strongly oppose this. I believe that the state already has enough gaming.
By awarding 11 licenses, each connected to an existing Ohio casino or racino, Stewart’s HB 298 suggests a planned deployment of internet casinos. It would prevent enterprises without a retail presence from joining the industry and levy a 28% tax rate on online casino income, higher than the 20% applied to online sports betting. Consumer protections including restricting online-specific promotional rewards and credit card deposits are also included in the measure.
Courtesy: https://www.covers.com, https://www.casino.org, https://pechanga.net
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