Ohio Bill Targets Online Sports Betting Ban

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-03

A group of Ohio Republican lawmakers has introduced sweeping legislation that would eliminate online sports betting in the state and significantly restructure Ohio’s regulated gambling market. House Bill 971, also known as the “Save Ohio Sports Act,” was introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives by Reps. Johnathan Newman and Beth Lear. The proposal represents one of the most aggressive attempts yet to reverse elements of the state’s recently expanded sports wagering system. If enacted, the bill would restrict legal sports betting to in-person locations only, effectively ending the convenience of mobile wagering for Ohio residents. This isn't just a small tweak—it's a major overhaul. The bill aims to roll back the 2023 launch of online sports betting, which brought in millions in tax revenue and attracted major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel. Critics argue that banning online betting could push gamblers to unregulated offshore sites, while supporters say it protects consumers from addiction and financial harm. The debate is heating up fast. ### What the Bill Proposes The Save Ohio Sports Act doesn't stop at online betting. It also tightens rules across the board. Key changes include stricter licensing requirements for casinos and racinos, higher penalties for underage gambling, and a ban on credit card deposits for wagers. The bill would also require all sports bets to be placed in person at licensed venues, like casinos or racetracks, within a 50-mile radius of the bettor's home. - **Online betting ban:** No more apps or websites for sports wagers. - **In-person only:** You'll need to visit a physical location to place a bet. - **Tighter oversight:** New rules for operators and increased funding for addiction programs. - **Revenue impact:** Ohio collected over $200 million in taxes from sports betting in 2024, which could be lost. These changes would hit hard for casual bettors who rely on mobile apps. But for lawmakers like Newman, the goal is clear: protect Ohioans from what they see as a predatory industry. ### Why This Matters Now Ohio's gambling landscape has shifted dramatically since 2023, when online sports betting went live. Since then, the state has seen a surge in problem gambling complaints, with the Ohio Casino Control Commission reporting a 40% increase in calls to the state's helpline. "We're not trying to ban fun—we're trying to prevent harm," said Rep. Lear in a recent hearing. "The data shows that easy access to betting on your phone leads to more addiction." But opponents, including the Ohio Casino Association, warn that a ban could backfire. They point to states like New Jersey, where online betting coexists with strong consumer protections. "If Ohio goes backward, bettors will just use unregulated sites," said a spokesperson. "That means zero consumer safeguards and zero tax revenue." ### What Happens Next The bill has been referred to the House Finance Committee, where it faces an uphill battle. Even if it passes the House, the Ohio Senate—led by Republicans who supported the 2023 expansion—may not back it. Governor Mike DeWine has not taken a public stance, but his office has signaled concerns about the economic impact. The legislative session ends in December 2025, so time is tight. For now, Ohio residents can still bet online, but the clock is ticking. If you're a fan of mobile wagering, this is a story worth watching. The outcome could reshape not just Ohio's gambling market but also set a precedent for other states considering similar rollbacks. > "This is about protecting families," said Newman. "Not about banning a pastime." Whether you agree or not, the debate highlights a growing tension between revenue and regulation in America's gambling industry. Stay tuned.