MORE DOUBLE STANDARDS IN THE U.S.

MORE DOUBLE STANDARDS IN THE U.S. Ohio to launch online keno Another example of double standards in the United States when it comes to online gambling surfaced last week with the announcement by the state of Ohio that it is to make online and televised keno available early next (August) month. The new addition to the state's lottery offering is expected to generate $70 million a year, earmarked for education and balancing the state budget in the current tough country-wide economic situation.  State spokesman Joe Caputo was upfront with the rationale behind the launch, telling reporters that the introduction of online keno was in answer to player demand.  "It's just another shot to keep us afloat with the way things are going," he said. How this position squares with hostile government positions on online casino gambling and sportsbetting is puzzling, but then the American legislative system has many surprises in the way of exceptions, such as permitting online gambling on horse racing, state lotteries and fantasy games. The new keno offering will apparently draw winners every four minutes, and there has been an enthusiastic response to calls for sales outlets, including bar owners feeling the pressure of lower levels of business due to the current public smoking ban.