By Ben Jenkins, Staff Writer

The “Save Ohio Sports Act,” a bill proposed by three Ohio state representatives, would outlaw all online sports betting, among other restrictions. 

The bill aims to halt the growing concerns with sports betting in Ohio. It would be split into two sections. The first would ban all online sports betting, as well as cap wagers at $100 in casinos. Gambling advertisements would be restricted in the state through the first bill.

The second bill, the “Sports Integrity Package,”would ban all player-prop bets, parlays and mid-game bets. It would also eliminate all betting on college sports. 

This bill is widely controversial, with many people citing the economic benefits that sports betting brings to the state.

“States like the tax revenue, job creation and more control over betting due to legalization. For example, online gambling in Ohio generated over $200 million in taxes in 2025. Younger bettors like college students might be more at risk given the low winning percentages and a hope that they can win big if they just play and bet enough over time,” Xavier sports management professor Dr. Linda Schoenstedt said.

Gambling undoubtedly stimulates the economy, but it is the negative impacts it has on individuals that calls the morality of it into question. Bettors who are younger are also more susceptible to addiction, so lawmakers are attempting to stop the problem at the source. Coupled with a ban on online betting, prohibiting all gambling on college sports will be the second largest change for Ohio. 

“I think there is certainly a greater risk for athletes feeling pressured to try and make money in unethical ways,” Schoenstedt stated.

Athletes who are not making as much NIL money as their peers may be more susceptible to falling into gambling schemes. 

Schoenstedt also cited an incident with DePaul University where four players were found to be intentionally underperforming against Georgetown University in February of 2024. Something like this in Xavier’s own conference could lead to a ban on any bets for Xavier sporting events.

Many schools around the nation have banned betting on their teams as a measure to protect their own student athletes. 

The “Save Ohio Sports Act” reflects a broader tension between economic gain and a responsibility to protect individuals. While sports betting has clear economic impacts in the form of tax revenue, a significant risk comes along with it, particularly for collegiate athletes. 

By targeting online betting and putting restrictions on high dollar amount wagers, the bill would attempt to address addiction concerns while preserving the integrity of sports. The debate for Ohio lawmakers will come down to balancing economic benefits while still protecting Ohio citizens from the potential risks that come from sports betting.