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Illinois 'doubles down' on gambling expansion

Illinois is on the cusp of another major expansion of gambling if the gambling interests and their supportive politicians have their way. In May, the Illinois General Assembly passed SB 744 that would seek an expansion of gambling in Illinois. Because Gov. Pat Quinn had expressed reservations, the State Senate President John Cullerton (D-Chicago) held the bill and did not forward it to the governor for action. In late August, Gov. Quinn, who has been meeting with supporters and opponents on...

Timeline on Gambling Expansion in Illinois

1927 – Pari-mutuel wagering on horseracing is approved by the Illinois General Assembly. 1971 – Bingo games legalized.   July 1, 1974 – Illinois Lottery launched on July 1, 1974, after Gov. Dan Walker signed legislation passed by the Illinois General Assembly. The Lottery released its first tickets by distributing to 7,000 retailers statewide. Marketed as the “cure all for state education funding for K to 12 education,” funding levels began dropping off and...