Ohio Expanded Gambling Expected to Keep Money at Home

The likelihood of casino gambling coming to Ohio soon has nearby states worried about gaming revenues.

States neighboring Ohio are worried that the potential expanded gambling in the state will affect their revenues, as Ohio players will no longer have to travel to play. Ohio lottery officials will install slot machines at state race tracks per an executive order by Governor Ted Strickland, and two-thirds of Ohioans are ready to approve four casino licenses this fall, say polls.

Moody's gaming analysts say Ohio residents spend almost $1 billion gambling at casinos in Indiana, West Virginia, and Michigan. Pennsylvania also gets extensive gaming business from Ohio 

."Any changes in Ohio's gaming laws will warp the markets considerably for the gaming facilities currently operating in states that border Ohio,"  Moody's analyst Jacques Ouazana told Reuters.

While other states will likely examine what games they might offer to keep Ohio players returning, they will also have to address the need to give patrons the best deals, including returns on gaming, comps, and comfortable surroundings. Economists say the increased competition will give area residents the best possible gaming choices at the best possible rates.

If the fall referendum passes, Ohio's four largest cities would get full casino gambling, with slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. Moody's says West Virginia would be hurt the most.