Illinois Lawmakers Reconsider and Pass Expanded Casino Gaming Law
After passing two other bills introducing new gambling to the state, Illinois Senators last week declined to pass a bill adding four more casinos to the state, saying enough is enough. But, after review of the state budget, the legislators hastily reconsidered and voted narrowly to authorize the casinos, as well as horse track slot machines.
In a 30-28 vote, the Senators approved plans to license four more casinos and permit state tracks to add slots. Previously, bills approving video gambling machines and online gambling on horse racing had both progressed past votes.
Proponents of the gambling measure said it could create revenues up to $1 billion, which is music to the ears of lawmakers eyeing a multi-billion dollar deficit on the state budget.
But the bill is projected to have a tough path through the state House, which historically has been far more conservative on gaming. Senator Dale Righter, who voted against the casino bill, said, "We spent a lot of time on an issue that won’t see the light of day in the House of Representatives.”
Other opponents also voiced concerns the revenue projections may be a mirage. Senator Dan Rutherford said, "I just think the idea of moving such a massive expansion of gambling is not going to be productive for job creation. I think it’s recycling dollars from one pocket to another.“
