The bill now needs Governor J.B. Pritzker’s signature in order to become law. The state’s top official has been among the staunchest supporters of the legalization of sports betting in Illinois and has previously said that he would sign a gambling expansion bill.
Under the legislation, the state’s casinos and race tracks will be able to provide online and in-person sports betting services. Their initial license fee would be US$10 million and their licenses would be valid for four years. In addition, the state’s sports venues with seating capacity of more than 17,000 will too be able to provide sports betting at the actual venues or within a five-block radius.
Apart from sports betting, the bill also provides for the addition of up to six casinos around the state, including one in Chicago. The passage of that particular provision marks the culmination of a years-long effort for the expansion of casino gambling in the state and for bringing a Las Vegas-style gambling venue in the Chicago area, which is believed to be one of the state’s most lucrative markets.
A portion of the revenue generated by Chicago’s casino would be used to finance police and firefighter funds. The bulk of revenue expected to be generated from expanded gambling in the state will be used for financing a US$45 billion capital plan for infrastructure improvements, schools, universities, and other projects.
Governor Pritzker said that he looks forward to sign the gambling expansion bill. The state’s top official also praised the Legislature for completing “one of the most ambitious consequential legislative sessions in this state’s history.”
Source: GMB / Casino News Daily
