Could electronic raffle machines become the next illegal gambling battleground? While Ohio lawmakers were debating the legality of Internet cafes, over 500 of these electronic raffle machines were being installed at VFW posts and fraternal lodges throughout the state. Supporters say the machines are for charitable purposes. But they look and feel a lot like electronic slot machines.

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine originally declared these machines illegal gambling and ordered them removed by August 1. A discussion with the president of the Ohio Senate changed his mind, temporarily. DeWine was informed by the Senate president that Ohio lawmakers would clarify the law regarding these machines after they return from their summer recess in September. For now DeWine has put off any enforcement action but has indicated he will resume enforcing the law if the legislators don’t resolve the issue. It is unclear how the law will be changed to legalize these electronic raffle machines.