Illinois One Step Closer to Online Gambling Legalization

The legalization of online gambling is still a hot topic in the United States, since many states are preparing their legislation for such a move.

Although we’re still waiting all those bills to become proper laws, the whole situation regarding this issue is changing for the better.

The latest state seriously considering the legalization of online gambling is Illinois, whose Senate approved H 479 bill on Wednesday, which is a big step towards the regulation of iGaming market in the Land of Lincoln.

Initially, the bill was intended only to provide the framework for the legalization of daily fantasy sports, but was later amended with online gambling provisions being added only couple of days before the voting in the Senate.

Beginning of a New Era

If this bill goes to become a law, it will allow all existing casino operators in the state, as well as those operating outside of Illinois, to set up online gambling operations in the state, consisting of online casino games and online poker.

After a brief discussion, the bill was approved with overwhelming majority (42-10). The next stop is the state House, where the bill almost came to a vote last week, but unfortunately, the voting didn’t take place. Such turn of events doesn’t mean the effort was futile.

House legislators are taking this issue seriously, with the latest announcement from the state’s lower legislative house stating the lawmakers will meet in a continuous legislative session (if necessary) to efficiently resolve the issue of online gambling legalization.

When Short of Cash, Turn to Gambling

The latest initiative comes as an effort to improve the state’s poor financial situation. Last month, the state’s legislature passed a bill to expand the land-based gambling operations, and now they await approval from the House. If it goes through, the state can look forward to a substantial tax revenue from casinos.

Analysts agree the legalization of online gambling and daily fantasy sports will have a noticeable impact on the current financial situations, with millions of dollars in revenue improving the overall economic climate in the state.