A new proposal for so-called “instant racing” has found bi-partisan support in the General Assembly according to a recent article in the Columbus Dispatch. Under the new proposal, players would place wagers on past races based exclusively on the win percentages of the horses, jockeys and trainers while the actual identity of racing participants remains unknown. After bets are placed, the bettor can watch the entire race or a ten-second clip. If successful, the wager is paid instantly. 

The new proposal would help the state’s sluggish racing industry and would also generate revenue for the state’s PASSPORT program, which provides home health care for senior citizens. State Representative Bill Seitz has indicated that this proposal doesn’t introduce any new gambling, but merely expands a form of gambling that is already legal under existing state law and the Ohio Constitution. Proponents hope the devices will also spur interest in traditional live racing at the tracks. Scioto Downs owner Charlie Ruma stated his hope that the new gaming would at least serve as a temporary fix for the racing industry while other options are examined.