Ohio lawmakers have introduced a legislative package that would make online sportsbooks illegal again in the state.

However, according to both supporters and critics of the proposal, the ban would not affect internet prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket.

The proposed ban is part of a broader effort by Ohio to crack down on online gambling, but the exemption for prediction markets highlights the complex and evolving regulatory landscape around these new financial technologies.

The legislative package would prohibit online sportsbooks from operating in Ohio, but internet prediction markets that allow users to bet on the outcomes of future events would not be subject to the ban.

Supporters of the proposal say prediction markets serve a different purpose than traditional sports betting, while critics argue the distinction is unclear and the markets could still be used for gambling.