13-03-2025
Proposal in the State Capitol would legalize online gambling
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinoisans can bet on sports using apps on their phones in recent years, and one proposal in the State Capitol could also allow casino games.
Bills sponsored by Rep. Edgar Gonzales (D-Chicago) and Sen. Cristina Castro (D-Chicago) would legalize the use of online gaming websites, or iGaming. This would allow adults in the state to gamble with poker, slot machines and similar games on the Internet under regulation.
Illinois earns $1.7 billion in revenue from gambling in 2024
The bill would require platforms to 'reasonably' verify that users are 21 years old or older and that they are in Illinois when playing games.
Advocates for the bill like the lobbying group Sports Betting Alliance argue allowing gambling websites could bring hundreds of millions of dollars for the state.
'iGaming is already happening in Illinois, operating under legal loopholes and making massive profits while robbing the state of hundreds of millions in potential annual tax revenue,' part of Sports Betting Alliance's website reads. 'Legalizing iGaming in Illinois regulates the industry, protects players, and unlocks new tax revenue.'
The proposal is receiving pushback. Many business owners argue by legalizing gambling online, it will cut into their revenue from gaming machines in their establishments.
The bill has been assigned to the House Gaming Committee. Similar legislation was proposed in past General Assemblies.
According to Sports Betting Alliance, seven states have legalized internet gambling, including Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
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