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Ever since the nation’s economy began to tank, states have been scrambling to find new ways of generating revenues.  Several states have turned to gambling expansion, specifically slot machines, to bring in more money for the state budget.  The results have varied. 

Recently a new plan has surfaced in Ohio to bring slot machines to bars, restaurants, and racing venues, but Governor Ted Strickland is not completely on board.  Slot machines and gambling expansion has a rough history in Ohio.  In the past 20 years four proposals have been defeated.

Governor Strickland is not completely against gambling expansion.  Last year he approved of the Ohio Lottery offering Keno in local bars and Taverns.  The plan was very successful in generating the revenue Strickland hoped.  However, the governor is reluctant to rely further on gambling to resolve the financial needs of the state.

The newest proposal calls for a precinct by precinct vote.  This process would allow state lottery run slot machines in the areas of the state where they are desired by the majority and keep them out of areas where they are not desired.  Also, taking this approach would not require an amendment to the state constitution.  This is very similar to the method used when the state reexamined the legality of selling alcohol on Sundays.

“As the governor has said before, he believes his role is to listen to people even if he doesn't agree with them,” said the governor’s spokeswoman Amanda Wurst.

“But today he remains convinced that expanded gambling is not the right approach for Ohio.”

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