An Ohio iGaming bill has been dormant for more than a year, but sponsor Rep. Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) is seeking to revive it in the new legislative session by proposing restrictions on promotional credits for online play. Under the plan, operators would have to make those credits redeemable at brick-and-mortar casinos instead.
Ohio lawmakers are set to revisit House Bill 298, which would limit iGaming licenses to the state’s existing casinos and racinos. By requiring iGaming operators to offer promotional incentives for use at physical casinos and racinos, Stewart seeks to address concerns that online casino gaming could reduce traffic and revenue at Ohio’s land-based gaming properties.
Ohio has 11 casinos and racinos, and roughly 20,000 people are employed by the state’s casino industry. HB 298 would allow only those existing gaming properties to apply for online casino licenses. Stewart believes limiting market access could reduce opposition from casino operators and protect jobs tied to retail gaming.
Ohio’s experience with sports betting has influenced the proposal. When online sports wagering launched in January 2023, companies including FanDuel and DraftKings used significant promotional spending to build market share. The iGaming restrictions are intended to prevent a similar competitive imbalance.
Stewart has cited estimates suggesting regulated online casino gaming could generate up to $400 million annually for Ohio. The potential revenue comes as Republican lawmakers continue discussing proposals to reduce or eliminate the state income tax.
The bill faces limited prospects of becoming law in 2026 because Gov. Mike DeWine opposes further gambling expansion. DeWine is due to leave office in January, however, potentially changing the political environment surrounding the measure.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton has indicated support for implementing iGaming with certain safeguards. Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has not taken a firm position on legal online casino gaming. Stewart could seek legislative action before the end of the current session or reintroduce the proposal after the new governor takes office.
Ohio is bordered by states including Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia that already permit online casino gaming. Only eight U.S. states currently allow iGaming.
The proposal comes amid gambling regulation efforts in Ohio. Authorities have stepped up enforcement against illegal casinos and unlicensed gambling operations in 2026, while regulators have considered restrictions on credit card-funded sports betting deposits.
Lawmakers have also examined Senate Bill 430, which would require prediction market operators offering sports event contracts to obtain state licenses and pay taxes similar to sportsbooks.