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Poll: Illinois Voters Don't Support Expanding Gambling

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – As reported by the PJ Star: "Illinoisans don't support expanding gambling opportunities in the state to bolster revenue, but they're rather noncommittal about the fact that it's already here, according to a recent Copley News Service poll.

"In a survey of 625 registered voters conducted March 8 through March 10, nearly half of all respondents oppose increasing the number of casinos or the number of gaming positions at existing riverboats. Nearly half also oppose legalizing video poker in private clubs or placing slot machines at horse-racing tracks.

"However, when asked what effect legalized gambling has had on the quality of life in Illinois, 16 percent said it was positive and 39 percent said it was negative. Thirty-eight percent believe it has no effect, and seven percent are not sure.

"…Fifty-three percent of poll respondents rejected increasing the number of casinos, while 36 percent support the option and 11 percent are undecided.

"…All of the questions regarding gaming expansion could become a reality. Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie, is pushing legislation from last year that would increase gaming positions, put slot machines at the tracks, legalize video poker and create two new riverboat licenses - one for Chicago and another for the south suburbs…"

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