While states around it are leaving skid marks behind in their efforts to quickly legalize sports betting, law makers in Ohio are strolling towards possible legalization.
This is partially because outgoing Governor John Kasich, who leaves office later this year and Senate President Larry Obdof are both opposed to expanding gaming in the Buckeye state.
Another is because it is unclear whether the legislature would be forced to ask the voters to amend the state constitution to allow sports betting. Obdof is convinced that such a vote is required.
Others point to the 2009 constitutional amendment which contains a clause that says Ohio casinos can offer any games offered by neighboring states. And since neighboring states, including the first, West Virginia, have legalized sportsbook, that could open the path for Ohio, they say.
Whatever the legality Obdof says a vote isn’t happening in the legislature before 2019. He’s looking at a possible Wild West style lame duck session if the party on the outs, the Democrats, take back the governor’s mansion in November.
The possibilities forward seem to be these: Action takes place in the lame duck session and outgoing Governor Kasich signs it; next year the new governor and lawmakers put a provision for sports betting in the new budget; next year lawmakers refer the decision to the voters; or nothing at all.
