SEARCH NEWS:

 

Illinois Republicans bet on casino money

ILLINOIS – As reported by the Quincy Herald-Whig: "Republicans in the Illinois House have proposed a $5 billion capital plan for highways, schools and colleges that would be financed through an expansion of gaming positions at existing casinos.

"House Republican Leader Tom Cross, R-Oswego, told a crowd at Quincy Regional Airport about the proposal late this morning. He said while the expansion of gaming positions may not be popular with lots of legislators, it may get more votes than tax or fee increases.

"…The last capital budget was approved in 1999 when Illinois FIRST was passed during the early days of Gov. George Ryan's term. In recent years, Gov. Rod Blagojevich has proposed capital plans, but lawmakers have failed to approve them.

"Cross called the proposal an infrastructure and jobs bill. It would allocate $3 billion for highway and mass transit projects, $1.5 billion for school construction and repair and $500 million for universities and community colleges.

"It would be financed with revenue generated from 6,000 new gaming positions at existing casinos. Cross said there are 10,000 positions now and by selling the positions and collecting state fees…"

< Gaming News