Legislation introduced to ban Internet gaming cafes in Ohio
COLUMBUS — State Rep. Matt Huffman, R-Lima, today introduced legislation in the Ohio House that, when enacted, could effectively ban Internet gaming cafés in the state.
House Bill 605 would clarify the definition of what is considered a “lottery” in state law and would give authority to the Ohio Lottery Commission to make rules on what is considered a “scheme of chance.”
The bill is being co-sponsored by state Rep. Lou Blessing, R-Cincinnati.
“Internet gaming cafés are finding ways around the law, and it’s time for us to do something about it," Huffman said.
Sweepstakes cafes are already largely considered illegal in Ohio, although it is estimated there are more than 800 in operation in the state.