Ohio sets rules on slots at tracks

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- As reported by The Cleveland Plain Dealer: "The Ohio Lottery Commission faced no opposition Monday as its members voted unanimously for rules on integrating slot machines at the state's seven horse racing tracks.

"The meeting was full of lawyers and lobbyists representing gambling interests supportive of the massive lottery expansion, but not a single person opposing the rules -- including a controversial provision to allow 18-year-olds to play.

"The Ohio Council of Churches, which last week publicly opposed letting teens play, did not send a representative. Commission Chairman Allan Krulak and the commission's chief legal counsel, Pam DeGeeter, said they have not received any letters opposing any of the rules.

"...The Ohio Lottery Commission set these rules for integrating slots at Ohio's seven horse-racing tracks. The rules include:

"• Separating the slot machines from the racing wagering areas.

"• Allowing tracks to operate slot machines 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"• Requiring all players to be at least 18 years old.

"• Requiring each track to spend $80 million on improvements, including $20 million during the first year.

"• Requiring tracks to provide educational materials on gambling addiction and to offer a program for problem gamblers.

"• Requiring tracks to monitor the slot machines through a closed circuit television system..."