A court has heard competing arguments on whether an anti-gambling group should be allowed to go forward with its challenge to Gov. John Kasich's decision to allow slots-like video lottery terminals at Ohio horse tracks.
The Ohio Roundtable was denied legal standing in May to bring its lawsuit. The complaint alleges Kasich's authorization of racinos is unconstitutional because voters must approve expansions of the lottery.
On Thursday, the Roundtable's lawyer told the 10th District Court of Appeals in Columbus that the group should be allowed to make its case because it represents Ohio residents who will be harmed by expanded gambling.
Assistant Attorney General Aaron Epstein argued the group couldn't say how racetrack slots would harm Ohioans any differently than casinos, which are legal.
The three-judge panel is deliberating.