Ohio approves sports betting, sportsbooks start applying for licenses

After a long wait, Ohio will finally be allowed to engage in sports betting, which officially begins on January 1, 2023. As the fun starts, Ohio now joins over a dozen other states that have recently authorized online sports betting.

On December 8, 2021, the Senate passed the sports betting bill by a vote of 31-1. Soon after, the bill was approved by the House by a vote of 72-12, indicating that legal gambling in the state was getting momentum. Then, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine formally signed the sports betting law on December 22, 2021. Finally, on June 6, 2022, the Ohio Casino Control Commission stated that Ohio sports betting will be formally available early next year.

Mobile sports betting licenses will be favoured for sports teams, racinos, and casinos. Each will receive one license, with the option of an additional license if the applicant can demonstrate that it will contribute to Ohio’s economy. The law also mandates that lottery kiosks be converted to allow for restricted sports betting in grocery shops, pubs, and restaurants.

The state of Ohio sports betting law permits the establishment of at least 25 sportsbook applications. Of those 25, 21 will be distributed to the state’s 10 sports teams and 11 casino facilities.

Following the opening of the application process on June 15, BetMGM and PointsBet became the first online operators to seek a sports betting license in Ohio. BetMGM sought a retail license as well. Other major sports betting companies, including FanDuel, DraftKings, and more are also expected to join the Ohio sports betting market soon.

When selecting a sportsbook, consider promotional offers, sports available, odds, and bet options. Also, every sportsbook features a deposit option so bettors can quickly and conveniently deposit money and start betting. There are several ways to deposit money into the account, but the most popular are credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal.