Illinois lawmakers discuss gaming expansion

The lawmakers heard public testimony about the possible gaming expansion in the state.

US.- State Representative Bob Rita chaired a joint session of two House subcommittees in Chicago regarding a potential gaming expansion that could allow a casino in the south suburbs of the city.

Rep. Rita is in charge of trying to develop a legislation that serves the interests of casinos, horse racing tracks, video gaming establishments, taxing bodies and other parties. He said that the introduction of video gaming machines and other venues has dramatically changed the revenue dynamic in the state. “There’s no doubt video gaming has filled in a lot of areas,” Rita said.

During the session, several people voiced their concerns regarding a possible over-saturation of the market. Eric Noggle, senior revenue analyst for the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, said: “There’s definitely a cannibalization impact any time you add new casinos.” However, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara said that the idea of saturation is inaccurate. “There’s room to grow,” he said.

Legislators are currently considering a proposal that would allow five new casinos in the state. If approved, the facilities would be located in Bloom, Bremen, Calumet, Rich, Thornton or Worth townships.