Ohio lawmakers passed legislation governing the operation of Ohio's future casinos in the early hours of Friday morning, when weariness seemed to affect the final legislation and left out a requirement that casino developers submit annual diversity plans, favoured by most Senate Democrats. The House passed the bill 86-12, while the Senate's vote was 20-12.

The final bill also splits the money between urban and rural areas, instead of benefiting fully the inner cities as the House had proposed. Up to half of the US $200 million in licensing fees expected from casinos in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Toledo will be split up between urban and rural areas un the state.

According to the new legislation, games of skill that resemble slot machines, with unchanged operation rules, will be regulated by the new Casino Control Commission rather than the attorney general's office. Also charities will be allowed to run bingo three times per week instead of twice, with maximum payouts increased from US$3,500 to US$6,000.

Democrat Rep. Kenny Yuko, sponsoring the bill, said: “As in any bill or piece of legislation, we are not going to satisfy everybody. I am satisfied that we are able to meet our constitutional obligations as decided by the voters last November.” Ohio voters had approved the four casinos in a 53% vote and set a 6-month deadline for legislators to pass gaming regulations. (E-06.08.10)

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