Jack Entertainment, which operates three casinos in Ohio, has issued a statement urging the state legislature to consider legalizing the practice.
In a statement published in Gaming Today, Jack CEO Matt Cullen said, “Under the proper regulatory framework, we support the State of Ohio moving forward with sports betting at brick and mortar facilities.” He added, “However, the detailed state regulations that will be written in response to the Supreme Court’s decision will determine the safety and viability of this potential amenity. Certainly there is significant guest interest in sports betting being available at our facilities.”
Jack Entertainment operates a casino in Cleveland, Cincinnati and a racino at Thistledown. It also operates properties in Kentucky and Detroit.
Legalizing sports betting in the Buckeye state could create complications for Jack owner and chairman Dan Gilbert, who is a majority owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, although NBA Commissioner Adam Silver was one of the first sports league officials to endorse sports betting. He has also supported the “integrity fee” that several leagues have asked that states that offer sports betting include in the law.
Ohio could be pressured to offer sports betting because neighboring states, including Pennsylvania and West Virginia are moving to do so.
