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Illinois Gambling Debate Complicated

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – As reported by the Marion Daily Republic: "If a person is confused about the state of gambling in Illinois, there is good reason.

"Thursday, Rep. John Bradley, D-Marion, passed his bill to eliminate riverboat gambling out of committee.

"The legislation would close the state's nine riverboat casinos. The measure passed 8-1, but it faces an uphill battle, as other proposals to expand gambling have recently been approved by House and Senate committees.

"…But to add to the confusion, Gov. Rod Blagojevich nominated an entirely new slate of members to the Illinois Gaming Board.

"…The Democratic governor said Thursday that three of his new appointments are effective as of Monday. The other two appointments would take effect in July, when the terms of current members Gary Peterlin and William Dugan expire. The state Senate has the power to confirm or reject the governor's appointments to the board, but those appointed can begin serving immediately.

"The appointees starting next week are: retired Cook County Judge Aaron Jaffe, who would become chairman; the Rev. Eugene Winkler, a retired Methodist minister and social activist in Chicago; and Charles Gardner, who manages a real estate investment company in the Chicago area.

"Southern Illinois University law professor Sheila Simon, daughter of the late U.S. Sen. Paul Simon; and Joe Moore Jr., manager of community relations for Shell Oil Co. in Chicago, start in July…"

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