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Illinois gambling expansion uncertain10 January 2008ILLINOIS -- As reported by the Illinois Daily Journal: "A bailout for the Chicago area's mass transit system could pass at least in the House this week, but the fate of a massive gambling expansion is more uncertain. "The House Gaming Committee Tuesday heard from opponents and proponents of a gambling proposal that includes a Chicago casino, video poker, slot machines at horse racing tracks, two additional riverboats and new gaming positions at existing boats. "The gaming proposal, which is meant to generate revenue for education and capital projects, seems to include a little something for most everyone in the gaming industry, but that doesn't mean everyone is on board with support. "The casino industry dislikes the prospect of higher fees and opposes slot machines at the tracks, a move they say could oversaturate gambling markets and hurt riverboats. "The lieutenant governor wants voters to have a say on any expansion through a statewide referendum. "...Speaker Michael Madigan said he filed a gambling bill, which also includes ethics reforms, he believed to be well-thought out and the product of much discussion and negotiation. "...Rep. Patrick Verschoore, D-Milan, a member of the Gaming Committee, expects a vote on gaming expansion to come eventually, if for no other reason than the state needs revenue..." |