The Spring Stumble is alive and well among Illinois casinos.
Following a national pattern of declining monthly gaming revenue, Illinois’ 15 casinos generated $136.6 million in revenue, down 10.3% compared to March’s total of over $152.3 million. The dip was expected, as gambling activity tends to spike in March because of the men’s and women’s NCAA basketball tournament.
April’s revenue created more than $31 million in state and local taxes, and that could see a significant boost if lawmakers legalize Illinois online casinos.
Lawmakers have introduced a bill in the Illinois House to legalize online casinos. However, it’s unlikely that the bill will become law during this legislative session. The Illinois’ Internet Gaming Act bill would allow the state’s casinos to offer online casinos through up to three partners. The tax rate would be 15%.
