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Bill

HB 286

Limit purposes for which internet gaming tax revenue may be used

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dani Isaacsohn and 1 co-sponsor

Ohio HB 286 restricts state spending of internet gaming tax revenue to specific designated purposes rather than allowing general budget allocation.

Referred to committee
#gambling
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Bill Summary · HB 286

Legislative bill overview

HB 286 restricts how Ohio can spend tax revenue generated from internet gaming (online casinos and poker). The bill narrows the permitted uses of these funds to specific purposes, preventing the state from allocating this revenue to general or discretionary spending categories. This represents a constraint on state budget flexibility for funds that are currently subject to broader allocation authority.

Why is this important

Internet gaming tax revenue provides a significant funding stream for Ohio's state budget. By limiting how these funds can be spent, the bill could either dedicate money to specific programs (potentially protecting certain priorities) or reduce overall flexibility in state finances depending on which uses are permitted. This affects budget planning and which state services or programs receive dedicated versus general funding.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget flexibility vs. dedicated funding: Restricting revenue uses may protect certain programs but could handcuff state budgeting during fiscal downturns or emergencies
  • Political prioritization: The specific permitted purposes will determine which constituencies benefit, making this a question of which programs deserve dedicated revenue streams
  • Revenue adequacy: If restrictions are too narrow, designated programs may receive inconsistent funding while the state has surplus revenue it cannot allocate elsewhere

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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