Illinois iGaming Bill Faces Multi-Front Opposition During Committee Hearing
HB 3080 (see bill summary on the member portal) had a committee hearing this week.
It faced opposition from different entities such as the Illinois Gaming Board, the Illinois Municipal League, the Illinois Licensed Beverage Association, and various fraternal organizations.
A lot of the arguments that opponents made were about the potential negative impact iGaming would have at the local level in terms of the economy and jobs as well as local control that entities have hosting VGTs in areas without land-based casinos. Arguments were also made by opponents that iGaming revenue would take away from VGT revenue.
To offset this opposition, Rep. Gonzalez offered the potential of an amendment that would include a “hold harmless provision” so small businesses and fraternal organizations that rely on VGT revenue would not suffer financial losses if iGaming is legalized.
HB 3080 is posted on the agenda for a March 19th hearing but the bill may not be called. See the committee posting here.