by John Kady
A Franklin County, Ohio, Common Pleas Court judge has ruled that slot machine-like devices are legal at Ohio’s racetracks and bars.
The judge ruled against Gov. Ted Strickland, who is attempting to outlaw the devices, commonly called “Tic Tac Fruit” and “Nudgemaster.” Ohio law allows the games of skill, but the Strickland administration is attempting to have them removed.
Beulah Park in Grove City and River Downs near Cincinnati began installing the machines several weeks ago to complement their racing and simulcast operations. They apparently intend to add more, according to published reports.
A Strickland spokesman said the governor is doing everything he can to stop the proliferation of gambling in Ohio and “will continue to do so,” according to the Columbus Dispatch.
Ohio voters last November defeated a referendum that would have allow video lottery terminals at the state’s seven racetracks. Gambling opponents have said that vote indicated a lack of desire for gambling machines in the state.