Some state officials think that storefront gambling-style operations known as internet cafes might be one reason why casinos in Ohio aren't generating as much tax-revenue as predicted.
 
Gross casino-tax revenue is likely to be $900 million short over two years.
 
That means less money than expected for cities, counties, and schools.
 
Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine wants state lawmakers to crack down on internet cafes where customers pay for internet time or phone cards and use them to bet points on computers loaded with games such as poker.
 
Chuck Blasdel, a former state representative and current lobbyist who represents internet cafes, says the businesses are being used a scapegoat for the casinos' lower-than-expected revenue.

"I don't think you can point to somebody buying a phone card for $10 or $20 as the reason why they're losing or not producing $900 million in revenue. I think clearly they're trying to find a scapegoat," Blasdel said.

He says regulation for internet cafes is needed, but not legislation introduced by Rep. Matt Huffman (R-Lima) that would essentially shut them down.