Illinois Governor Signs Expanded Video Gambling Bill
It used to be that a couple would go out to dinner at a restaurant and then afterwards they could go to a casino to do their gambling. Now, in the state of Illinois, a couple can do both at the same time.
On Tuesday, Governor Pat Quinn signed a Bill into law that will bring thousands of video gambling machines into state restaurants and bars. The move is being made to try and close a budget deficit and help pay for a $31 billion public-works system.
The Bill only authorizes local jurisdictions to make their own rules regarding how many machines will be allowed in their bars. With over 15,000 liquor licenses, the state could add a maximum of 77,000 new gambling machines.
The next step in the gambling expansion process will be for the Illinois Gaming Board to come up with regulations of the new law. The Board has two months to develop the regulations. The state will receive thirty percent of the revenue generated from the new machines.
Illinois is moving the same way as the rest of the country when it comes to expanded gambling. They already have riverboat casinos and slots at state racetracks, but now the slots will be offered in many more places. It will provide an opportunity for much revenue in Illinois.
Each bar, restaurant, or truck stop that has an alcohol license will be allowed by law to carry up to five gambling machines. The actual number of machines the establishments will contain will be up to local authorities.
July 15, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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