State of Illinois lawmakers rejected a gambling expansion plan (Senate Bill 1849) that included slot machines at Illinois race tracks (“racinos”), including Arlington Park; and a new casino in Lake County. The bill received 58 votes. Seventy-one votes were needed to overcome a potential Governor Quinn veto.
Opponents of Senate Bill 1849 are concerned the expansion would take too much revenue from the state’s existing 10 casinos, such as the Grand Victoria Casino Elgin, and increase the risks and problems associated with gambling addiction and its effects on poor people.
Supporters of the bill say its a jobs bill that could save thousands of jobs, or by its failure could risk losing the horse racing industry in Illinois.
The status of SB 1849 is “Placed on Calendar – Consideration Postponed”
See also …
Bill Status of SB1849 97th General Assembly