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The bills, House Bill 3080 introduced by state Rep. Edgar
González, Jr., D-Chicago, and Senate Bill 1963 introduced by
state Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin, are nearly identical to
previous versions. This marks the third consecutive year that
legislation has been proposed, with the latest version including
a tax rate of 25% on adjusted iGaming revenue. Supporters of the
iGaming bill claim Illinois could collect an additional $1
billion annually in taxes.
iGaming would offer a variety of gambling options, including
online slots, table games and live dealer games. According to
the American Gaming Association, eight states currently allow
mobile gambling.
The Illinois Gaming Machine Operators Association is opposed to
the idea, and Christopher Altruda, a writer and contributor to
CasinoReports.com, said he is not surprised the Illinois Gaming
Board is not on board as well.
“Taking on an expanded vertical like this as you're still
settling the expansion of what you had for brick-and-mortar
casinos and online sports betting, it’s a very tall ask of this
state agency,” said Altruda.
At over 40,000, Illinois has more video gaming machines outside
of casinos than any other state. You can find them at bars,
supermarkets and gas stations.
A spokesman for the Illinois Licensed Beverage Association
recently told lawmakers that online gambling poses a risk to the
hospitality industry, resulting in bars closing or laying off
staff.
Altruda said the legislation is facing a tough road ahead.
“I think the video game terminals create a unique dynamic as it
pertains to Illinois because they are so extensive throughout
the state and the invested parties in terms of the bars and
taverns made a very focused push on what would happen in terms
of potential revenue cannibalization there as opposed to
brick-and-mortar casino revenue,” said Altruda.
The two measures are currently stalled in committee. |
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