Video Gaming Industry Answers Oversaturation Concerns [AUDIO]

On the two-year anniversary of the first video gaming machines being turned on in Illinois, we talked with Illinois Gaming Machine Operators Association President Michael Gelatka about the consequences of the increased gambling in the state.

Gelatka argues video gaming has produced real benefits for Illinois these last two years, including supporting government programs and infrastructure as well as pumping cash into local establishments and economies.

However, some municipalities, like Rockford and Loves Park, are concerned about the explosive growth of the machines in the Stateline area. We asked Gelatka about his organization's view on communities seeking to slow down the expansion of video gaming locally:

I think the industry is not harmed by localities taking a moment, taking a breath, and analyzing what's best for their town. The video gaming act itself allows for towns the ability to regulate and grow video games through their local control of who and what people receive a liquor license. So it seems like that's exactly what Rockford is doing.

 

Here's our full chat with Michael: