It is not exactly like the Rise of the Machines from the Terminator film franchise, but an interesting battle may be taking shape in Illinois involving tavern and restaurant owners who operate video game terminals and casinos that desire to expand by offering iGaming.
Legislation has been filed in both chambers of Illinois’ General Assembly to add iGaming to casino and racino offerings. This comes on the heels of a June 2019 capital bill that greatly expanded gaming options — including licenses for six yet-to-be-built casinos and three yet-to-be-built racinos, plus legal sports betting in the Prairie State.
Illinois, though, is also recognized as the nation’s leader when it comes video game terminals (VGTs), which already generate a significant amount of tax revenue at both the state and local levels.
