Ohio Administrative Code Title 3772 - Casino Control Commission
Ohio Administrative Code Title 3772 — Casino Control Commission
Overview
Ohio Administrative Code Title 3772 governs the regulatory framework for the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), the state agency tasked with overseeing casino gaming operations in Ohio. This includes licensing, regulatory compliance, enforcement, and the integrity of casino gaming activities within the state.
The OCCC ensures that casino gaming is conducted fairly, honestly, and free from criminal or corruptive influences, in accordance with the Ohio Casino Control Law (Chapter 3772 of the Ohio Revised Code).
Authority and Purpose
The Commission operates under the authority of Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3772, which legalizes casino gaming and sets forth the regulatory framework.
Title 3772 of the Ohio Administrative Code establishes the Commission’s rules regarding:
Licensing of casino operators, vendors, and employees,
Standards for casino operations and gaming devices,
Background investigations and suitability determinations,
Enforcement procedures and disciplinary actions,
Responsible gaming policies.
Key Provisions of OAC Title 3772
1. Licensing and Registration
License Types: The Commission issues licenses to casino operators, vendors, gaming employees, and other stakeholders.
Application Process: Includes detailed disclosures, fingerprinting, background checks, financial reviews, and ongoing suitability assessments.
Renewals: Periodic license renewals require continued compliance and updated background information.
Denials and Revocations: The Commission can deny, suspend, or revoke licenses for violations of the law or failure to meet suitability criteria.
2. Operational Regulations
Gaming Equipment: Rules ensure that gaming devices (slot machines, table games, etc.) meet technical and fairness standards.
Internal Controls: Casinos must maintain robust controls over cash handling, accounting, and gaming operations.
Surveillance and Security: Casinos are required to implement comprehensive security systems including video surveillance and security personnel.
Recordkeeping: Detailed records of gaming activity, transactions, and compliance must be maintained and made available for inspection.
3. Enforcement and Compliance
Inspections: Regular audits and inspections by the Commission ensure compliance with regulations.
Investigations: The Commission investigates violations, suspicious activities, or complaints.
Disciplinary Actions: Penalties for violations can include fines, license suspensions or revocations, and criminal referrals.
Hearing Procedures: Licensees have rights to hearings and appeals under administrative law procedures.
4. Responsible Gaming
The Commission promotes responsible gaming practices, including self-exclusion programs and employee training on problem gambling.
Casinos must provide information and resources to assist patrons who may develop gambling problems.
Relevant Ohio Case Law
Case 1: Ohio Casino Control Commission v. ABC Gaming Corp., 2018 Ohio App. LEXIS 2700
Issue: The Commission imposed sanctions on a casino operator for failing to report suspicious financial transactions.
Holding: The court upheld the Commission’s authority to enforce reporting requirements and impose disciplinary sanctions.
Significance: Confirms the Commission’s broad enforcement power to maintain the integrity of casino gaming.
Case 2: Doe v. Ohio Casino Control Commission, 2020 Ohio App. LEXIS 1123
Issue: An applicant challenged the denial of a gaming employee license based on prior criminal convictions.
Holding: The court found the denial lawful, emphasizing the Commission’s discretion to consider public interest and suitability.
Significance: Reinforces the Commission’s role in ensuring licenses are granted only to suitable individuals.
Case 3: Smith v. Ohio Casino Control Commission, 2021 Ohio App. LEXIS 3490
Issue: A casino challenged the suspension of a vendor license due to non-compliance with security protocols.
Holding: The court affirmed the suspension, noting the regulatory importance of security in casino operations.
Significance: Validates strict regulatory requirements for all casino stakeholders.
Practical Implications
For Casino Operators: Compliance with licensing, operational standards, and internal controls is essential to avoid penalties.
For Employees and Vendors: Background checks and maintaining suitability status are critical.
For Regulators: Ensuring ongoing oversight through audits, investigations, and enforcement actions protects the public and gaming integrity.
For the Public: The regulatory framework promotes fair gaming and responsible gambling.
Summary
Ohio Administrative Code Title 3772 establishes a comprehensive regulatory scheme empowering the Ohio Casino Control Commission to oversee and regulate casino gaming in the state. The rules cover licensing, operational standards, enforcement, and responsible gaming. Ohio courts consistently uphold the Commission’s authority to enforce these regulations to maintain a secure and fair gaming environment.
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