Ohio House panel OKs bill on casino regulations

COLUMBUS (AP) — An Ohio bill that makes broad changes to the state’s gambling laws cleared a legislative panel today with bipartisan approval, though state lawmakers were split over whether to devote additional money toward helping gambling addicts.

An Ohio House committee approved the legislation on a 20-2 vote, sending it to the full House, where a vote is expected next week.

The wide-ranging measure creates a regulatory framework for gambling in Ohio in preparation for new casinos and the addition of slots-like video lottery terminals, or VLTs, at horse racetracks.

Legislative leaders have made the bill a priority as voter-approved casinos in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus and Toledo get ready to open within the next year or so.

The bill outlines a minimum number of live racing days at the state’s seven horse tracks. And in an effort to further boost the horse-racing industry, certain permit holders would have to pay a percentage of their commission from VLTs to the state’s Racing Commission to benefit breeding and racing in Ohio.