It isn’t bribing, but there are promises of payoffs to local governments.

That is what supporters of a proposed casino are promoting as part of their initiative to get 402,275 valid signatures before the deadline for a ballot issue.

The $600 million casino, which would be built in Clinton County in southwest Ohio, say the government payouts could reach as much as $25 million, although they estimate the low end would be around $276,000.

The group is running television ads to tout the statewide benefits of a casino, using Vicki Lawrence of Mama’s Family fame to spread their message. That message?

“Ohio tax dollars are leaving the state at 65 miles per hour.” Translated, the group says a great deal of money goes to southwest Indiana, West Virginia, and Detroit which all have casinos.

MyOhioNow.com is the leader of the proponents, who are expected to get strong opposition from Governor Ted Strickland and Senator George Voinovich.