Report Finds Gambling At a Slowdown in Illinois

For years, a Rockford casino has been discussed as part of a gaming expansion bill in Springfield. But a new report could cool talks of any new facilities in the state.

According to the Springfield State Journal-Register, a report from the Illinois Legislature says that despite growth in video gambling, the industry is going through slow times:

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability's annual review found state taxes for all forms of gambling in Illinois fell 5.8 percent in the fiscal year that ended June 30...State revenue from riverboat casinos and the lottery fell and horse racing revenues were flat. And while video gambling revenue grew, it wasn't enough to offset other losses.

One of the questions that observers need to answer is whether the state is saturated in terms of gambling opportunities or if new facilities in certain areas -- like Rockford, Danville, and Chicago -- could increase tax revenue into Springfield.

According to the story, Governor Rauner has not ruled out the idea of gaming expansion in the future:

“The governor wants to ensure that if a gaming bill passes, it is a good deal for all Illinois taxpayers and believes decisions on gambling should be done in close consultation with local communities,” said spokeswoman Catherine Kelly.

"Riley & Scot" talked with State Rep. Bob Rita earlier this year about the possibility of a bill making it to the Governor's desk. He was optimistic at the time, but as we know now nothing passed the House: