After MLB Scandal, Ohio Governor Regrets Legalizing Sports Betting

^{Pictured: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine}

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine says he now regrets the state’s decision to legalize sports betting in 2021, arguing that lawmakers “should have gone a different route.”

DeWine believes legalization opened the door to aggressive advertising by major sportsbooks with “deep pockets,” driving rapid market growth. According to the governor, such pressure inevitably fuels an increase in gambling addiction.

He also pointed to the recent MLB scandal involving two Cleveland Guardians pitchers accused of betting on games, saying the incident underscores the threat to sports integrity.

What about the benefits?

DeWine does not dispute the financial upside. Since launch, the market has generated around $500 million in tax revenue for the state. Legal operators — including FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars and others — have pushed offshore sites out of the market and created safer conditions for bettors.

What’s next?

A full ban is no longer feasible, but the governor supports tightening regulations. He backs restrictions on microbets — wagers on small, easily manipulated in-game events — which MLB has already begun phasing out.

Gambling Park notes that Ohio currently allows sports betting (online and retail), casinos, lotteries, and pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing.