Illinois Next In Gambling Expansion

Add another state, Illinois, to the list of states to expand their gambling expansion initiative. Illinois is catching up with the theory that new gambling locations around the state will boost the state's economy and keep money in its borders. The state Senate approved a measure that would bring at least four new casinos to Illinois. These casinos will be built in Rockford, Waukegan, Danville, and most significantly, Chicago.

This will bring, in theory, huge gains for the state. New tax dollars will be absorbed from the games themselves, not to mention income tax, and tax on the materials for the construction of said casinos. The construction alone will generate hundreds or even thousands of jobs for the area and help to stimulate local economy. These casinos are also to help bring in tourism from outside the state. This effort is being made to bring outside dollars in, rather than lose Illinois residents to outside gambling sources.

Last week a Bill was passed to legalize video poker. Some legislatures are skeptical, thinking that relaxed gambling laws are moving to fast. Opposition to the Bill has not yet had an outburst, but surely there will be some debate in the state Legislation.

With the recent passage of the legalized video poker games, casinos in Illinois are not far off. Senator Dave Syverson was quoted at saying, "These other states with casinos on the Illinois border are going after Illinois residents. With this Bill, we'll now be going after their money instead." Ambitions are high, and the rewards can be equally as large.