Could some Charitable Gaming to Be Banned in Ohio?

The language in the casino proposal currently being debated in Ohio is worrying some supporters of fundraising events. At issue is whether or not the current proposal would ban charitable gaming (casino nights) from the proposed casino areas. Frankly, it will be tough for casino fundraisers to compete against a casino in their own backyard anyway, but this legislation may seal their fate.

Below is an excerpt from the Columbus Dispatch:

If Ohioans approve four casinos in this November's election, they could inadvertently shut down casino-style games that many churches and other charitable organizations hold to raise money.

That's the opinion of Gov. Ted Strickland and Attorney General Richard Cordray, who have analyzed the language of the ballot measure that would authorize casinos in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Toledo.

Issue 3 would limit "casino gaming" to those four sites.

Opponents of the proposed constitutional amendment, plus the attorney general's office, think that restriction would wipe out casino-style gambling currently allowed at churches under Ohio's charitable-gaming laws.

"If the amendment passes, we believe that it would create a risk that a court might find that those charitable games of chance that are currently legal might be determined to be illegal," said Ted Hart, a spokesman for the attorney general.

While bingos would obviously face increased competition from the proposed casinos, the casino legislation would not affect their ability to operate. It specifically exempts bingo and horse racing from any new gambling restrictions.

For the complete story, please see James Nash, Casinos to stop church games?, The Columbus Dispatch, August 21, 2009.