Even as the spring legislative session draws to a close, state representative Bob Rita is still hopeful that Illinois will legalize online gaming. Progress is severely hampered by persistent opposition and stalled legislation.
Despite the apparent lack of legislative movement, one politician believes that legalized igaming may yet come to Illinois.
Despite the fact that the spring legislative session is quickly coming to a conclusion, state Rep. Bob Rita feels that legalization might return to the agenda.
Speaking to local media, Rita stated that everything was conceivable, even with only a few days left in the session.
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“This is the time of year when you start seeing new products that might not have legs but could. We need to look at it closely and understand what causes and impacts it has, rather than just thinking about how we can collect money,” he added.
This year has seen consistent efforts to legalize internet gaming in the state. HB3080 and SB1963 are now blocked in the House and Senate, respectively, but time is running out to get them passed this session, and legalization faces strong resistance.
That resistance comes not only from anti-gambling groups but also from the retail casino industry and companies that rely on the revenue stream offered by video gaming machines. The Illinois State Bowling Proprietors Association claims that establishing internet casinos will lower earnings for local companies.
The parliamentary session ends on May 31, leaving politicians with only a few days to make movement on any legalization plans.
Courtesy: https://igamingexpert.com/, https://www.igbnorthamerica.com/, https://gamingamerica.com/news/
