The State of Ohio is a weekly news program spotlighting the latest happenings at the Statehouse, in the Governor’s office, at the Ohio Supreme Court and throughout the Buckeye State. Award-winning host Karen Kasler presents viewers with unique analysis and thoughtful perspective on important issues of statewide interest through interviews with political leaders, newsmakers, experts and Ohio citizens. The State of Ohio is the only TV show to bring to Ohioans the latest news about taxes, voting, education and other critical matters from where it all happens -- Capitol Square.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Topics: Politics
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The governor’s proposal to pull back the final 4.2% of a 21% state income tax cut to plug a nearly-billion dollar budget hole sat quietly for two weeks. Now it’s halfway through the Statehouse, after a sudden show of support from key Democrats, two quick hearings and a three hour, sharply partisan debate in the House this week. Highlights include remarks from Reps. Ron Amstutz (R-Wooster), Matt Dolan (R-Novelty), Seth Morgan (R-Huber Heights) and Steven Dyer (D-Green).

Two weeks from now, Ohioans will once again vote on expanding gambling in Ohio with Issue 3. Proponents of the four-city casino proposal have enlisted the state’s labor unions and community leaders and law enforcement agencies, including the Fraternal Order of Police. Mark Drum from the FOP-created Cops For Casinos talks about jobs and the revenue the casinos will create. But that issue of money is a big red flag for one of the lead opponents on Issue 3. Rev. John Edgar is chair of the United Methodist Anti-Gambling Task Force in Ohio. Edgar says the FOP’s support is especially troubling to him, and that he’s also concerned that criminals could operate casinos.

Among those who are speaking out on Issue 3 is a man who is well known as a gambler. But Art Schlichter’s story isn’t a tale of luck and good fortune. The former OSU football star shattered school records and was picked fourth in the NFL draft in 1982, but says gambling derailed his pro football career, landed him in prison for 10 years, cost him his marriage and more than a million dollars and nearly ruined his life. He’s never opposed a gambling proposal before, but this time is campaigning against Issue 3.

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