Ohio bingo profits dropping

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — Profits generated by Ohio charities on bingo games have dropped steadily in recent years, according to state statistics.

Charities playing bingo generated profits of more than $100 million last year — more than any other state, according to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. But revenue has dropped annually since peaking in 2005.

The economic downturn, as well as new casinos and racinos opening, have bitten into bingo profits, the Dayton Daily News reported Monday. Internet cafes have also hurt, and officials say they are pleased the state has cracked down on them. A law that went into effect in October essentially closed more than 600 of the unregulated gambling businesses.