Ohio lawmakers are considering an increase in sports gaming facilities in the state’s three largest counties, according to the latest version of Ohio’s two-year budget bill. If passed, House Bill 33 would allow the counties of Cuyahoga, Franklin, and Hamilton to have seven brick-and-mortar sportsbooks, instead of the five currently permitted.
The current bill allows 40 ‘Type-B’ sports gaming licenses for brick-and mortar sportsbooks, but limits the above counties to five each. With the new legislation, sportsbook applicants such as Harry Buffalo, private equity firm Resilience Capital Partners, and Stark Enterprises, which were previously rejected, may now have an opportunity to operate in Cuyahoga County.
some Ohioan entities already have first pick status
Adding extra competition, however, some Ohioan entities already have first pick status. Under state law, the Cleveland Browns, Cavaliers, and Guardians, plus a JACK Casino and sister racino, all currently have priority for Cuyahoga’s five licenses.
Ohio only legalized sports betting at the start of 2023 but Governor Mike DeWine is keeping all parties on their toes. Observers expect HB23 to eventually land on DeWine’s desk, but first it’s expected to pass the full House on Wednesday before the Senate makes its own tweaks.
Earlier this month, DeWine ordered an investigation into alleged “HR irregularities” involving ex-Ohio state lottery director Pat McDonald, who suddenly resigned.