HomepageCasino Columbus Sportsbook Bonus
In 2009, an electoral referendum approved licensing of four commercial casinos with one each in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo and Columbus. All four of these casinos are open today offering slots, video poker, table games and live poker. The casinos are the Hollywood Casino Columbus, Hollywood Casino Toledo, the Jack Cleveland Casino and the Jack Cincinnati Casino. In addition, the state legalized video lottery terminals (VLTs) for racetracks in the state. Seven parimutuel properties now offer VLTs with Miami Valley Gaming (formerly Lebanon Raceway) having the most at 2500 machines. The other tracks offering VLTS are Belterra Park, Northfield Park, Dayton Racing, Mahoning Valley, Thistledown and Scioto Downs.
Casino columbus sportsbook bonus
The history of legalized gambling in Ohio is similar to what we’ve seen in many other states. They made gambling illegal early on, making all forms of gambling ‘for money’ illegal in 1790. At the same time, they made gambling losses unenforceable. They followed up with legislation in 1807 outlawing the private lotteries that were very popular at the time. In 1933, they reacted to the huge popularity of horse racing by legalizing parimutuel wagering.
In 1973, Ohio legalized a lottery with the first tickets going on sale a year later. The Ohio Lottery remains extremely popular today offering a fairly standard assortment of draw and scratch off instant games. In 1975, the state made bingo and raffles for charity legal for the first time. In 2004, the Lottery Commission assumed oversight for charity gambling.
In 2009, an electoral referendum approved licensing of four commercial casinos with one each in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo and Columbus. All four of these casinos are open today offering slots, video poker, table games and live poker. The casinos are the Hollywood Casino Columbus, Hollywood Casino Toledo, the Jack Cleveland Casino and the Jack Cincinnati Casino. In addition, the state legalized video lottery terminals (VLTs) for racetracks in the state. Seven parimutuel properties now offer VLTs with Miami Valley Gaming (formerly Lebanon Raceway) having the most at 2500 machines. The other tracks offering VLTS are Belterra Park, Northfield Park, Dayton Racing, Mahoning Valley, Thistledown and Scioto Downs.
There has been some movement toward offering sports betting in Ohio. In July 2018, a group of state senators introduced a bill to “express the intent of the General Assembly to develop and enact legislation legalizing sports wagering”. No specifics have been offered but this does suggest that the interest is there.
As in other states, Ohio’s colleges and universities banded together to seek a prohibition on wagering on their contests, but state lawmakers are not looking to oblige the schools on that front.
When HB 29 was passed by the Ohio Senate and House, it came as a shock to those following the sports betting industry. After years and years of back and forth between legislators and special interest groups, the bill has been passed and we now await the structuring of Ohio’s operator market!
With a self-imposed deadline of January 1, 2023, Ohio now has to set the rules and regulations for licensed operators who intend to set up shop in the Buckeye state. Sports betting is just a year (or less!) away, Ohio! But what does the bill include? What kind of parameters have already been set? The bill, which has been called “industry-friendly” by analysts, offers us a glimpse at what bettors should expect.
The bones of Ohio HB 29
Similar to how Michigan handled their statewide launch, the Ohio bill requires all operators to adhere to a universal start date, meaning that operators will all be approved for licenses prior, so no single sportsbook gets an unfair headstart. While this may seem like this provision solely evens the playing field amongst operators, it also gives Ohioans more power in their choice. By giving everyone the same green light, Buckey bettors can explore their options, while operators entice them with promotions and bonuses.
The tax rate set forth in the bill is set at a low 10%, which should maximize the state’s revenue by enticing competitive odds and offerings from rival sportsbooks. Choice is the weapon of the consumer, and Ohio has its resident’s interests in mind. That’s also probably due to the multiple states that border Ohio already offering sports betting opportunities to Ohio citizens who are able to cross a border to make a bet. By regaining the revenue lost to states like Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Indiana, Ohio can up their tax revenue unlike any other state. What’s Pennsylvania and Indiana’s loss, is Ohio’s gain!
Legislators also wanted the bill to include a specific focus on equitable access to sports wagering licenses in the state. Including within the bill is the requirement of a study meant to examine any instances where disadvantaged persons experience discrimination in the sports betting industry. The results of the study will then be applied to potentially subvert such discrimination, or at least dictate how equitable access within the state will be handled in the future.
eSports get the “OK”
Another fascinating, forward-thinking addition to this bill is that eSports are eligible for wagering. That’s fantastic news to bettors, operators, and gaming fans alike! By adding eSports to their offerings, Ohio is set to take a chunk of the billion-dollar industry, as video games and console gaming competitions become more and more prevalent in the mainstream. This is massive news for the sports betting industry.
In mid-June, after a wealth of amendments the bill became HB 29, which advanced to the Senate, and was approved a day later.
Ohio Sports Betting FAQs
- Find out about Legal Sports Betting States
Sports betting is now officially legal in Ohio after HB29 was approved by both the House and the Senate and signed into law by Gov. DeWine in late December.
Potential Ohio online sports betting sites
While Ohio natives still cannot bet on sports in their state, it is unclear as to how many sportsbooks will be available in the state once sports betting is signed into law.
Sportsbooks such as BetMGM, DraftKings and Caesars are all expect to be amongst the top sports betting apps available in Ohio’s starting lineup on launch day.
BetMGM
Having taken the US sports betting market by storm, the BetMGM online sportsbook and betting app have expanded into new markets, and offers fantastic offers on a variety of sports.
Given BetMGM’s presence across the rest of the USA, it will be unsurprising to see BetMGM available for Ohioans to use once the green light is given for sports betting licenses.
- Check out our BetMGM Review
- Read all about the BetMGM bonus Code
DraftKings
DraftKings initially launched into the fantasy sports market, allowing users to win money based on individual player performances.
Since launching in New Jersey in 2018, DraftKings Sportsbook now operates in a number of states, four of which border Ohio. Since DraftKings presence is well-know around Ohio, it’s very likely that DraftKings will become available in Ohio once the sports betting bill is passed.
- Check out our DraftKings Sportsbook Review
- Read about the DraftKings Promo Code
Caesars
In terms of gambling in the USA, Caesars are one of the most iconic names. The name deriving from the famous ‘Caesars Palace’ in Las Vegas, one of the country’s most well-known casinos.
Given they now have a top-of-the-range sportsbook following their acquisition of William Hill earlier this year, Caesars will be wanting to break into the Ohio market and offer their services once sports betting is legalised.
- Check out our Caesars Sportsbook Review
- Read all about the Caesars Sportsbook Promo Code
What neighbouring states have legal online betting?
Of Ohio’s five neighboring states, four offer legal betting. Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia all have legal online betting options available for customers.
- Read more on Indiana sports betting
- Read more on Michigan sports betting
- Read more on Pennsylvania sports betting
- Read more on West Virginia sports betting
Are Ohio Retail Sportbooks operational?
At this moment in time, unfortunately there are no retail sports betting outlets available. Once the bill is passed then it is believe that retail sports betting will be available in Ohio.
There are already 11 operating casinos in Ohio, so it is likely that many of these will apply for sports betting licenses.
Latest Ohio Sports Betting News
Since Ohio’s sports betting bill, HB 29, was approved by the Senate in June, and following recent activity, this bill was signed into law before the end of 2021
This bill was approved by 72-12, with Gov. Mike DeWine signing the bill into law late last year as Ohio took a huge step towards seeing sports betting launch in the state.
Despite this encouraging news, it seems those in OH will still have to wait until 2023 to be able to bet, as January 1, 2023 has been touted as the most likely launch date for online sports betting in the state.
Ohio Sports Betting History
In May 2021, Senate Bill 176 was introduced and very quickly a number of hearings were held with a target of June 30th for approval.
In mid-June, after a wealth of amendments the bill became HB 29, which advanced to the Senate, and was approved a day later.
Many in Ohio were hopeful of the legalisation of sports betting before football season. Unfortunately, lawmakers missed the deadline on June 30th, and the date was pushed back to the Fall.
The bill was put to the full House and Senate, with the bill being approved by 72-12, with Gov. DeWine signing the bill into law in late 2021.
Following this, the OCCC then published the first set of rules for sports betting in January, with those involved touting January 1, 2023 as the most likely start date for sports betting in OH.
Ohio Sports Teams to bet on
With major cities such as Cleveland, Cincinnati and Columbus, there are no shortage of professional sports teams. Professional baseball, basketball, football, hockey and soccer are all represented in Ohio, as well as a number of successful college sports teams.
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns, named after original coach and co-founder Paul Brown, compete in the NFL as members of the AFC North division. The Browns have reached the playoffs just once since 2003, and are one of the teams never to appear in a Super Bowl.
All of the Browns’ games for the current season will be able to be wagered on, as well as the Browns chances of winning the Super Bowl, winning the AFC North and the AFC.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers are an NBA team which competes in the Eastern Conference. The birthplace of Lebron James into the NBA, the Cavs have won just one NBA championship in 2016, but have dominated the NBA in the 21st century.
You will be able to wager on all of the Cavaliers games for the season, with you also being able to bet on Cleveland to win the Eastern Conference, the NBA championship and qualify for the playoffs.
Cincinatti Bengals
The Cincinatti Bengals play in the NFL, competing in the AFC North alongside their state-rivals the Cleveland Browns. The Bengals were also founded by Cleveland Browns head coach Paul Brown, and much like the Browns have struggled in their history as a football club.
You will be able to bet on all of the Bengals games for the season, with you also being able to bet on Cincinnati to win the AFC North, the Super Bowl and qualify for the playoffs.
Bovada takes all three of those things seriously. There are a lot of deposit and withdrawal options, but Bitcoin is always going to be the easiest in this day and age. Additional bonus offers are also available for users that sign up using Bitcoin, so that is an option that you want to consider.
Cash, Convenience, and Customer Service
Every top-rated online sportsbook needs to take the three C’s seriously. The cashier page needs to have a lot of deposit and withdrawal options and fast processing of transactions. With convenience, everything needs to be easy to find. Bells and whistles are great, but what users want is to find what they need and find it fast because those lines are always moving. With customer service, it is self-explanatory. Without the customers, there are no sportsbooks. They are there to serve you and answer any questions you may have and assist with any concerns or questions that arise.
Bovada takes all three of those things seriously. There are a lot of deposit and withdrawal options, but Bitcoin is always going to be the easiest in this day and age. Additional bonus offers are also available for users that sign up using Bitcoin, so that is an option that you want to consider.
The live betting interface at Bovada is also among the best in the business. That is another element of convenience. Think about how we are as a society these days. When we want it, we want it now. We don’t want to wait. Bovada’s mobile betting capabilities stand apart from most of the other competitors.
The details of the sports betting bill have not been released, but if Ohio is like most states, you will have to be 21 years of age and physically in the state (verifiable by your mobile device’s geolocation tech, or a downloadable desktop plugin) to place wagers.
December 2021
Ohio Senate, House, and Gov. Mike DeWine overwhelmingly pass bill to legalize Ohio sports betting. The Ohio Senate and House on Wednesday, Dec. 8 voted to approve a bill that would legalize sports betting in The Buckeye State. On Dec. 22, Gov. DeWine signed HB29 into law. The latest that sports betting will be implemented is January 2023, but lawmakers hope for first bets to be placed in mid to late 2022. [DeWine Signs Bill Legalizing Sports Betting in Ohio, Dec. 22]
November 2021
With the holiday recess looming, the House and Senate are eager to get legislation passed. Both sides continue to negotiate for retail betting at casinos, the amount of mobile licenses, and the lottery commission’s role in the venture. As negotiations continue, the holiday deadline looms and both sides are showing a sense of urgency pertaining to the passing of sports betting legislation.
September 2021
The Ohio Legislation has reconvened following a summer recess. A conference committee hopes to decide on one bill to pass through the senate and house, with hopes of legalizing sports betting as quickly as possible in Ohio.
June 2021
SB176 passed through the senate with a vote of 30-2, very soon after it passed out of its committee. With the summer recess looming, the immediate future of sports betting in Ohio looks bleak. Sen. Schuring proposed an amendment to HB29 which included the legalization of sports betting. This amendment also makes it easier for casinos to host retail sportsbooks, much to the excitement of casino operators. As we enter into the summer recess, we have two sports betting bills hanging in the balance. Senate Bill 176 and House Bill 29. [ Ohio Senate Pass Sports Betting Bill, June 16]
May 2021
Sen. Schuring unveils the newest sports betting legislation, SB176. This bill would allow for 40 licenses, split evenly between retail and mobile operators. Under SB176, the retail operations would have to be standalone. This means that casinos and racinos cannot have a sportsbook operating within their walls. This addition resulted in pushback from the states’ eleven casinos and racinos, which will serve as a roadblock to the bill’s progress. [Senate Bill 176]
March 2021
As the new legislative session starts up for 2021, so do talks about adopting a sports betting bill in Ohio. Gov. Mike DeWine has already dubbed legal sports betting as “inevitable” in Ohio, so legislation passage is dependent on the cooperation of the Ohio House and Senate. [ Gov. Mike DeWine Says it’s ‘inevitable’ Ohio Will Legalize Sports Gambling, March 11]
December 2020
With the holiday recess looming, it seems that legal sports betting legislation will be put on hold until the new year. The Senate and House have different ideas about how sports betting should be implemented with the state. These are roadblocks that many Ohio sports fans hope get resolved in the new year.
November 2020
A special committee of the Ohio Senate has been meeting to draft a bill that would legalize sports betting in Ohio. Main sponsors of this bill consist of Sen. John Eklund, Sen. Sean O’Brien, and Rep. Dave Greenspan. Each one of these state sponsors either termed-out, or lost their reelection bids in this latest election cycle. This could put a pause on the drafting of sports betting legislation within the state.
Prior to Fall 2020
There are two (one each by the House and Senate) Ohio sports betting bills that are being drafted up. Senate Bill 111 (SB 111) sets the tax rate at 6.25% and puts the Casino Control Commission as the regulator, while House Bill 194 (HB 194) sets the tax rate at 10% and puts the Ohio Lottery as the regulator. The number of skins each operator would get is a differentiating factor in the two bills as well.
Sports betting is set to be legalized and regulated within the State of Ohio in June, 2021. However, Cincinnati residents do have the option to place bets & Wagers through licensed Indiana online Sportsbooks & betting sites.
For more on Ohio Sports Betting…
Ohio is making progress and we recently updated that progress that the state is making in its push for sports betting in Ohio. Keep an eye right here at ATS as we will continue to update the legislation and the situation in the Buckeye State.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
The Buckeye State isn’t The Betting State. At least not yet. Most of the states that share a border with Ohio have legalized sports betting in light of the Supreme Court decision to overturn PASPA in May 2018. Ohio has moved forward at a glacial pace, but with so much potential revenue lost to neighboring states like Pennsylvania, Indiana, West Virginia, and soon to be Michigan and Kentucky, legislators are going to have their hands forced at some point.
You’ll have to excuse the state of Ohio for its slow progress on gambling. After all, an amendment to the state constitution had to be passed in 2009 just to allow slot machines and table games. Up until that point, the state had been losing lots of gambling dollars to neighboring states and Canada, but there didn’t seem to be a sense of urgency. The first casino opened in Cleveland in 2011 and now there are four full-fledged casinos and a handful of racinos in Ohio.
While the news is pretty bleak for the time being, there are still options. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “I live in Ohio, where can I bet on sports?”, at least you have an answer to that question. When PASPA was overturned, some adjacent states had already spent months debating and studying the financial impacts of legalized sports betting. Even though Ohioans can’t bet in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, or Toledo, where the brick-and-mortar casinos are located, a short trip across the border to the east or the west is all that is needed to start getting in the game.
Can I Bet on Sports in Ohio?
Is sports betting legal in Ohio? No, but it is in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia and that means that you can bet on sports while living in Ohio. People from Cleveland can bet in Erie at Presque Isle Downs at a BetAmerica Sportsbook or in New Cumberland, West Virginia at Mountaineer at a William Hill Sportsbook. They can even go to Pittsburgh and visit Rivers Casino to play in the BetRivers Sportsbook.
People from Columbus can bet at the William Hill Sportsbook at Wheeling Island right across I-70 or at the Caesars Sportsbook at Harrah’s Hoosier Park in Anderson, Indiana. Those in Cincinnati and Dayton can roll over to Indiana Grand in Shelbyville to play at that Caesars Sportsbook. Those in Toledo have a little bit of a drive, but those in Youngstown can play at Rivers, Presque Isle, Wheeling Island, or Mountaineer. There are a lot of options.
The best option will forever be mobile sports betting. Fortunately, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and West Virginia all offer betting from a smartphone or an internet browser. Geolocation tracking picks up on the user’s location and the user absolutely must be physically located in the state in which the bet is being placed, but you don’t have to be a resident of that state.
For example, the online app for DraftKings went live in Indiana on October 3, 2019 to start accepting online sports bets. All it takes to download the app and set up an account is to be in the state of Indiana. Hop in your car and take a quick drive across the border. If you are an Apple user (iOS), you can download the DraftKings Sportsbook app from the App Store. If you are an Android user, you’ll have to go to the DraftKings website to download the app because the Google Play Store currently restricts gambling apps, but once you have it downloaded, you are good to go. Just sign up for an account, put some money in it, and then start betting.
Once you go home, you will be able to access the app, but you won’t be able to make a bet. Once you go back into the state of Indiana, the geolocation tracking will let the app know that you are free to make your legal wagers.
If you live on the Eastern edge of the state, you can download the Pennsylvania or West Virginia apps, like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetRivers, and PlaySugarhouse to take a look around and make your bets when you are within the borders of those states.
All of the major sports leagues like the NBA, NHL, NFL, college football, college basketball, MLB and the other sports and leagues like NASCAR, MMA, golf, tennis, and soccer are listed with odds on all of the different mobile sportsbook apps.
While betting online in Ohio isn’t legal yet, it probably will be some day. In the meantime, you can try your luck with the apps and the sportsbooks in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. And, hey, if you find yourself in New Jersey or Iowa for business or pleasure, you’ll already have some of the apps that are available in those states as well.
The waiting game can be tough, but Ohioans have plenty of options if they live near the border or are willing to drive a little bit to make sports bets online in this post-PASPA world.