Yesterday, an Ohio legislative committee approved a bill that addresses gambling at racetracks that is slot-like, as well as operations in the state’s four casinos. The committee ended up rejecting a provision that would have worth millions to help supplement a problem gambling fund.

There was broad support for changes in the bill, such as changing the current midnight curfew to 2am at bingo games.

The bill is called House Bill 386, and will go through a vote next week with the entire House of Representatives. If the bill is approved, it would go to the Senate for consideration. If gambling expansion is to happen, then the bill will need to continue moving along. So far, the bill has experienced a few delays because of disagreements on things.

Democrat from Elyria, Representative Matt Lundy supports the bill, and has said “I want to keep things moving forward, I’m concerned about any more delays.”

Lundy has supported the bill, but did not get enough support in increasing funding for gambling addition treatment. As gambling keep expanding, this could eventually become a big problem, especially if the funding is not there. It’s not like there will be absolutely no funding, as 2% of casino revenue is supposed to go towards gambling and substance addiction-related programs. Unfortunately, that 2% may not be enough in the future.