It only took Ohio casinos one hour to resume 24/7 operations after Governor Mike DeWine lifted a three-month statewide curfew. Enacted in response to Covid-19, the curfew had been in effect from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. and recently was extended to begin at 11 p.m. It was ended after statewide hospitalizations totaled less than 2,500 Covid cases for seven consecutive days.
DeWine noted that the curfew could be reinstated by the Ohio Department of Health if hospitalizations or cases increase in the future. Casino managers emphasized that they would continue to follow health and safety protocols, including taking guests’ temperature for admittance and requiring face masks.
JACK Entertainment Chief Executive Officer Mark Dunkeson said, “We are enthusiastic to once again offer non-stop gaming entertainment and excited that it coincides with the opening of 3,000 square feet of brand new gaming space at JACK Thistledown Racino in North Randall, as well as our continued offerings of the newest slots and live table games at JACK Cleveland Casino.”
MGM Northfield Park also announced it would resume round-the-clock operations effective immediately. David Tsai, president of the Midwest Group, MGM Resorts, said, “We’re excited to expand our hours of operation and welcome more of our team members back to work.” d in a statement.
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati also is now operating 24/7, although its poker room remains closed. Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati President George Goldhoff stated, “We continue implementing our Safe+Sound protocols mandating facial mask usage as well as frequently disinfecting high-touch surfaces, specifically slot machines, table tops, casino chips, table games, restrooms, door handles, elevators and more.
“Our thoughts go out to individuals who have contracted the Covid-19 virus and to family members who have lost a loved one. We want to do our part to help curb the spread of Covid-19 and appreciate the healthcare workers, first responders, local communities and governments dedicated to serving others.”
Officials at Belterra Park Cincinnati said the casino is now open “all day, every day.” Miami Valley Gaming’s hours now are 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. Monday through Thursday, with a four-hour break for deep cleaning, and 8 a.m. Friday through 4 a.m. Monday.
