Illinois senator files new online casino bill

State senator Christina Castro is attempting once again legalize online casinos in Illinois with bill SB1656, after a similar proposal was rejected last year.

If the new bill is successful, casinos and racetracks in the state will be able to apply for an online gambling license which will cost $250,000 and allow them up to three skins. The activities of the operators will be monitored and regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.

The bill aims to add to the state’s coffers with a tax rate of 15% on adjusted gross revenue that will be directed to the State Gaming Fund. It will also allow operators deduct promotional credit.

SB 1656 stipulates that all operators must establish and regularly consult a self-exclusion list for problem gamblers, and prominently display responsible gambling language on their websites.

The bill is similar to those passed in Massachusetts and Maryland in that it stipulates all licensed operators must provide an annual report with their goals for the next year as well as an appraisal of their performance concerning their previous goals.

However, unlike those jurisdictions, the Illinois gambling bill looks to fast-track the process of license application by setting out short deadlines, especially for operators with licenses in other jurisdictions.

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