House panel OKs bill on casino regulations

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

An Ohio bill that makes broad changes to the state’s gambling laws cleared a legislative panel Wednesday 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 slotslike 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.

The measure also bolsters oversight of gambling. It gives the state inspector general certain powers to investigate conduct at casinos, and it characterizes the Casino Control Commission as a law enforcement agency. The commission, which will oversee rules and licenses for the new casinos, would have the authority to subpoena and get warrants for wiretaps.