Illinois Amends Gaming Law to Allow Wagering Machines
On Wednesday, the Illinois Senate voted to amend the state’s gaming law to include wagering machines. Amended Bill SB1849 now goes back to the House for final approval before being sent to Governor J.B. Pritzker to be signed into law.
The amended bill allows licensed establishments, such as bars and truck stops, to offer up to five video gambling machines. The maximum bet per machine is $2, with a limit of $10 per player per day. Establishments must also dedicate at least 40% of their profits from machine wagering to charity.
Supporters of the amendment argue that it will provide much-needed revenue to struggling communities and charities. “We know that this is a form of gaming that people want,” said State Senator Terry Link (D-Lake County). “It will help generate revenues in areas where they are sorely needed.”
Opponents of the amendment argue that it will lead to increased gambling addiction and social ills. “This is going to create more addicts, more broken marriages, more problems in our society,” said State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Rockford). “It’s going to be a disaster.”
Governor Pritzker has not yet indicated whether he will sign the amended bill into law.
Illinois Moving Forward with Plans to License Wagering Machines
A recent report from the Illinois Gaming Board has recommended that the state move forward with a plan to license wagering machines in bars and taverns. The recommendation is in response to a increasing demand for such machines, which are currently being used illegally in many establishments.
The proposed licensing would allow for up to 5,000 machines to be placed in establishments across Illinois. The Board estimates that the licensing would generate over $60 million in revenue annually, which would be used to fund programs for problem gambling addiction.
Opponents of the proposal argue that it will lead to increased crime and addiction rates. However, supporters assert that the licensing will bring much needed revenue to the state while also providing responsible regulation of the machines.
Illinois Extends Deadline for Applications for Wagering Machines Licenses
The Illinois Gaming Board has announced that it is extending the deadline for receiving applications for licenses to operate wagering machines. The previous deadline was October 1, and the new deadline is November 1.
This extension provides more time for interested parties to submit their applications and allows the Illinois Gaming Board additional time to review the submissions. The board has not yet announced when it will award the licenses.
Background on Wagering Machine Licensing in Illinois
In May 2017, the Illinois Gaming Board issued a request for proposal (RFP) for licenses to operate wagering machines. The proposal outlined the licensing requirements and gave interested parties until October 1, 2017 to submit their applications.
The licensing requirements include a minimum capital investment of $2 million, background checks for all key personnel, and compliance with local zoning regulations. The licenses are valid for five years and can be renewed.
What Are Wagering Machines?
Wagering machines are devices that allow players to place bets on games of chance. These games include slots, keno, and roulette. The machines are typically found in casinos and other gaming establishments.
Why Is Illinois Issuing Licenses for Wagering Machines?
Illinois is issuing licenses for wagering machines in order to generate revenue for the state. In fiscal year 2018, the state expects to generate $200 million in revenue from these machines. This money will be used to fund projects such as infrastructure improvements and education initiatives.
Illinois Issues First Wave of Licenses for Wagering Machines
The state of Illinois has issued the first wave of licenses for wagering machines, which will be made available at horse racing tracks throughout the state. The licenses were issued to 10 companies, who will now have the ability to operate the machines at the various race tracks.
The issuance of licenses comes as good news for those in the gambling industry, as it provides a new way to generate revenue. It is also expected to create new jobs in the area. In addition, the machines are anticipated to draw more people to the tracks, which should help to boost attendance and betting totals.
The move is seen as a positive one by many, as it will allow Illinois residents to place bets on horse races in a convenient and easy manner. Those who are granted a license will be able to set up their machines at any of the state’s horse racing tracks.
In order to obtain a license, companies must submit an application that includes information about their proposed operation. They must also pay a fee of $5,000 per machine. The machines must also meet specific requirements, including being located in an area that is easily visible to patrons.
The 10 companies that were granted licenses are: Ainsworth Game Technology Inc., American Wagering Inc., Blue Chip Gaming LLC, Churchill Downs Technology Ventures LLC, Delaware North Sportservice Inc., Emerald Gaming & Entertainment LLC, Great American Gaming Corp., ILABT LLC, Keeler Racing LLC and Penn National Gaming Inc.
Illinois Announces Winners of First Wave of Wagering Machine Licenses
Illinois has announced the winners of the first wave of licenses for wagering machines, with nine establishments winning licenses. The machines will be allowed to offer video gaming terminals, which give players the chance to win money by playing a variety of games.
The licenses were awarded to a variety of businesses, including restaurants, bars, and truck stops. The establishments will be able to offer the terminals starting on January 1st, 2019.
The Illinois Gaming Board held a meeting on Wednesday to award the licenses. In addition to the nine establishments that won licenses, eleven other businesses were approved to offer wagering terminals but did not win licenses.
The nine establishments that won licenses are located in Addison, Batavia, Elmhurst, Franklin Park, Homer Glen, Itasca, Lisle, Morton Grove, and Wheeler.
Governor Bruce Rauner applauded the decision, saying that it would create jobs and help expand tourism in the state. He added that the expansion of gaming in Illinois would make the state more competitive with its neighboring states.