Ohio lawmakers have introduced a sweeping proposal that would dramatically limit how residents can legally wager on games. Known as the Save Ohio Sports Act, the package would eliminate mobile wagering entirely and impose strict new limits on what remains. This is a bill that could transcend Ohio sports betting apps. Supporters call it consumer protection, while critics warn it could unravel a booming industry.
What the Bills Actually Proposes
The centerpiece is House Bill 971, filed on July 1, 2026, by Representatives Johnathan Newman of Troy and Beth Lear, with about 10 Republican cosponsors, including Jennifer Gross, Gary Click, and Riordan McClain. Click and McClain were the original public faces of the effort back in April, when it was unveiled alongside the Center for Christian Virtue. Newman and Lear are now the formal lead sponsors on the filed legislation.
If passed, the bill would ban all online and mobile Ohio online sports betting, allowing wagering only in person at the state's four licensed retail casinos. It would cap individual bets at $100 and limit bettors to eight wagers per day. Parlays, live in-play betting, player prop bets, and all college sports wagering would be prohibited outright. The bill would also block bettors from using credit cards or other borrowed money to fund wagers, permitting only bank transfers or existing winnings. Sportsbook advertising would be barred from college venues and live game broadcasts, and sign-up bonuses or other promotional inducements would no longer be allowed.
Why Supporters Say It's Needed
Representative Newman has pointed to data suggesting that 95 percent of Ohio bettors deposit money without ever seeing a net return, arguing the current system is structured to favor the house at the public's expense. Supporters also cite concerns about athlete integrity, underage exposure, and gambling addiction. A 2022 state survey found that roughly one in five Ohio residents qualify as at-risk gamblers, a statistic sponsors frequently reference when defending the bill.
Why Critics Are Pushing Back
Representative Newman has pointed to data suggesting that 95 percent of Ohio bettors deposit money without ever seeing a net return, arguing the current system is structured to favor the house at the public's expense. Supporters also cite concerns about athlete integrity, underage exposure, and gambling addiction. A 2022 state survey found that roughly one in five Ohio residents qualify as at-risk gamblers, a statistic sponsors frequently reference when defending the bill.
Where Things Stand Now
HB 971 has been formally introduced but has not yet been assigned to a House committee, meaning no hearings have taken place. Before it could become law, the bill would need to clear committee, pass both the House and Senate, and receive Governor DeWine's signature. For now, existing Ohio sports betting rules remain fully in effect, and nothing changes for bettors or operators unless the legislation advances further.
