CLEVELAND – The Ohio Lottery realized an eighth consecutive year of record profits, with slots-like video terminals at two racinos and interactive games played at taverns providing a sharp boost, the Miami Herald reports.

According to Ohio’s lottery commission, profits for the year ending June 30 totaled $803 million, up from $771 million in the previous fiscal year. 

Not all was good news for lottery retailers, though: sales of traditional lottery games dipped 1.4%. Sales of Pick 3 and Pick 4 tickets dropped 3.5% and 8.7% respectively, while instant tickets, which account for half of the lottery’s sales, were off more than 5%. 

The Cleveland Plain Dealer said lottery sales at racinos — combined race tracks and casinos — along with four casinos, cut into traditional lottery game interest.

Tavern games Keno and EZPlay also boosted lottery profits last year, officials said.

In an effort to sustain the lottery’s strong sales, Director Dennis Berg said he wouldn’t rule out offering online casino games.

State officials have asked lottery Director Dennis Berg to draft a plan for keeping the lottery strong. He said he wouldn't rule out joining the trend toward offering online casino games.