With the help and support of law enforcement across the state, Ohio has enacted substantial changes affecting Internet cafés.
The legislature recently passed a bill to extend the moratorium on opening new Internet cafés. As a result, cafés not in existence prior to June 11, 2012, likely are in violation of the law. Either the county prosecuting attorney or the Ohio Attorney General may seek an injunction to close them.
Second, a new law regulating Internet cafés becomes effective Sept. 4, 2013. The law makes it much easier for law enforcement to investigate and prosecute Internet cafés because it prohibits cash prizes and limits merchandise prizes to a value of $10 or less.
After the law’s effective date, any Internet café paying out cash prizes is in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2901.02(A)(5). Because of this restriction, many Internet cafés are expected to close their doors.
The Attorney General’s Office will continue to help local law enforcement and county prosecutors in any way needed — from law enforcement and investigative help to providing assistance with questions of law, case development, or prosecution.
For more information or assistance: Contact Charitable Law Section Chief Peter Thomas at 614-466-3181 or
Peter.Thomas@OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov.