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With the Cincinnati Bengals set to play in Super Bowl LVI, there is no better time to update readers on Ohio.
Although Ohio sports betting is still a ways from launch, one of the state’s premier operators is already working to construct sportsbooks at its two casinos.
Making the first move in Ohio
JACK Entertainment plans to construct two Las Vegas-style sportsbooks, one at JACK Cleveland Casino and the other at the JACK Thistledown Racino.
Adam Suliman, VP of sports and digital gaming for JACK Entertainment had this to say:
“We’re in design on those right now and we’ll be swinging hammers pretty soon.”
Additionally, Suliman said the casino is working on releasing free-to-play sports betting app through the betJACK banner.
In December, lawmakers passed a sports betting bill paving the way for retail and online sports betting in Ohio. However, live betting isn’t expected to happen until Jan. 1, 2023.
Lawmakers also tasked the Ohio Casino Control Commission with creating rules to govern sports betting.
For companies like JACK, the casino operator will pay $1.5 million every five years for a license. The amount jumps to $5 million upfront and a $1.5 million renewal of the casino partners with two mobile sportsbooks.
Ohio sports betting rules update
The OCCC has already released two batches of rules which are available for public comment. The most recent batch focuses on licensing for mobile and retail sportsbooks and general betting provisions and equipment.
Jessica Franks, a spokeswoman for the OCCC, told reporters it could take at least six months before rules are created.
“We’re going to need the rest of [2022] to get everything done.”
There are 11 casinos and racinos in the state and 10 professional sports organizations; they will receive first preference on mobile Type A licenses.
Under OH law, 25 mobile licenses would be issued, leaving four up for grabs. However, if it benefits Ohio economically, the OCCC can approve more licenses.
