ADW was approved and awaits the Gov's signature. Indications are he will sign it. Slots? Forget about it!
The House sponsor of a major gambling expansion plan that includes a Chicago casino declared the proposal dead for the spring session.
Rep. Bob Rita said there were too many snags to get the bill passed on the final day before adjournment.
“We have heard time and time again about all that is wrong with putting out an 11th-hour big gambling bill at the end of session. We want to take more time to get this right and go through it line-by-line to make sure we do it right,” said Rita, D-Blue Island, in a statement. “I’m announcing hearings for this summer to take the framework of this bill out around Illinois, get the feedback we need on what should be in there and push a responsible, comprehensive bill for the fall veto session.”
The bill would have authorized new casinos for Chicago, the south suburbs, Lake County, Rockford and Danville. Horse racing tracks would have gotten slot machines.
Gov. Pat Quinn, who twice has vetoed gambling expansion measures, had said he would not sign the latest version into law unless lawmakers sent him comprehensive pension reform as well. Efforts on the pension issue appear to have failed this session.
Rita also cited concerns over the tax rates and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle’s wish to get a cut of the gambling revenue pie.
Important Message For Illinois Account Holders
We are happy to report progress has been made to restore your ability to wager online. Legislation that would again allow Illinois residents to wager on horse racing online has passed both the House and Senate. The bill is now being sent to the Governor for his signature.
Once the Governor signs the bill, TwinSpires.com will again be able to accept wagers from Illinois residents. Since this could happen any time, we wanted to reach out in advance to see if you needed any assistance with your account? If you do need assistance, please reach out to TwinSpires.com Player Services via email, live chat or by phone at 877-SPIRES-1.
In addition to our numerous online deposit options, you can make deposits and withdraws in person at Arlington Park or any Arlington Park OTB location.
We are closely monitoring the situation and will let you know immediately via email when you can begin wagering on your TwinSpires.com account.
Sincerely,
TwinSpires.com Team
