Illinois Hopeful for Gaming Expansion

The latest efforts to expand gaming in the US state of Illinois are being seen by some as the most hopeful chance for success to date.

The growing speculation is fueled by the popular belief that that powerful House Speaker, Mike Madigan, might be on board and that Governor Pat Quinn might finally be willing to sign such legislation. American gambling laws often take some time to change as they are rigorously monitored and opposition is usually strong.

However, despite the hopes the conflicted politics of gaming expansion are now becoming visible. The state’s thoroughbred horseman’s association is opposing fewer slot machines being proposed than in earlier bills and communities hoping to host casinos are opposing the bill for a Chicago-only casino.

Options

Two options are proposed; first, a bill allowing a 10,000-position Chicago mega casino that would be owned by the state with 50 per cent of profits shared with the city of Chicago, an approach some identify as a Madigan idea Secondly, a bill allowing a 4,000-position Chicago casino and three further 1,200-position casinos in Danville, Rockford, Lake County and the south suburbs.

Both amendments to existing bill SB1739 would allow racetracks, depending on their location, to have 450 to 600 slot machines. Earlier legislation allowed 900 slots through most of the state and 1,200 at Churchill Downs-owned Arlington Park in Cook County. As of yet, there is no mention of legalizing internet or mobile casinos in the State, and its likely talks will follow the decisions over current expansion.