Proposal for State Lottery to Offer Slot Machines

Proposal for State Lottery to Offer Slot Machines

Representatives of Ohio’s racetracks are asking the State Lottery to enter the slot machine gaming business. Governor Ted Strickland has the power to direct the State Lottery to operate slot machines at racetracks. If the Governor authorized such a move, neither legislative nor voter approval would be required. The proposal would generate immediate revenues of over $1 billion from license fees. With the shortfall in the state budget, the prospect of immediate cash is attractive. However, Governor Strickland would almost certainly come under fire from those who oppose gaming as well others who believe that voters and legislators should have a say in any gaming proposal. In any event, the Governor’s office appears unlikely to act on the proposal.

/ Lottery