Ohio Bars, Restaurants, Gaming Hosts Apply For Sports Betting Licenses

Fairfield, Ohio could be hotbed for sports betting

Ohio bars, restaurants, and gaming hosts can now apply for Type-C sports betting licenses which will enable those establishments to add sports betting kiosks on their grounds. Restaurant and bar owners across the state welcome this opportunity as it can drive people into their businesses.

This program is a part of the government’s plan on expanding its sports-related project following the legalization of sports betting in Ohio legislators. People in this state can participate in legal sports betting at the beginning of next year.

Bill Watson, co-owner of Kitty’s Sports Grill in Cincinnati, is among those who are looking forward to the program as his business has not been booming in the city. Fewer people work in the downtown area due to the pandemic which means fewer customers to these bars and eateries.

“We’re definitely looking forward to it,” Watson explained in an interview with Spectrum News1. “I think it would be a nice draw for people to come in and be able to bet on any game, any… you name it.”

According to Watson, Ohio people no longer need to go to other states to bet. They can now do it within the state, at the nearest bars and restaurants. Watson’s restaurant is one of 707 locations pre-approved to have sports betting kiosks.

Ohio Casino Control Commission opened the application this July. Jessica Franks, communication director for the commission, suggested that business owners quickly submit their applications.

“For those restaurants and bars that would like to be considered to start on that universal start date of January 1st, 2023,” Franks said. “They’ll need to have their applications in the U.S. by August 15.”

The commission acknowledged that it is a new area for them. Therefore, both the government and consumers need to learn about its implementation.

“There are a lot of resources available both on our website and in a lot of local communities,” Franks added in her statement. “And there’s plenty of help available and services available for those who would like some more information they can go to beforeyoubet.org for more information.”