Senator Niraj Antani has introduced a bill which would legalize online poker and iGaming in Ohio. [Image: Shutterstock.com]

A new bill has been introduced in Ohio which would legalize online poker as well as other iGaming in the state.

State Senator Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg) introduced the bill, SB 312, which would allow the Buckeye State’s four casinos to operate their own online platforms, or those in partnership with other operators.

it’s time to bring iGaming out of the black market and into the sunshine”

Speaking on the Bill, Antani said: “Many Ohioans don’t have close access to a casino or racino but should be able to participate in this entertainment option. It’s time to bring iGaming out of the black market and into the sunshine to provide it safely to all Ohioans.”

However, the bill looks unlikely to make any progress in the state. Antani has stated that he will not seek re-election in 2025, and there have been no further sponsors, meaning it would have to be passed by then.

Secondly, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has recently doubled the sports betting tax in the state, and SB 312 proposes a tax rate for online poker and iGaming which is below the new figure.

The bill proposes the tax rate be set at 15%, 51% of which will go to local counties, and 34% of which will go to school districts. The remainder would be allocated to the horse racing industry, law enforcement, and problem gambling treatment.

Three of Antani’s Republican Party colleagues, Jay Edwards, Jeff LaRe, and Cindy Abrams had previously expressed support for legalizing online gambling, with the caveat that the state should be cautious in moving forward. Antani’s bill takes things a step further but seems highly unlikely to succeed.