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As Illinois struggles with one of the highest per-capita budget deficits in the U.S., state legislators are frantically seeking opportunities to raise revenues to offset potential economic disaster. One proposed solution, Senate Bill 737, would permit five new casino licences to be added the state’s existing ten riverboat licences (covering nine locations). It would also expand the scope of gaming in those sites, and authorise slot machines at the state’s horse tracks.
Illinois casino taxes rank as some of the highest in the nation, graduated from 15 percent to 50 percent, so it is unclear how many takers would line up for the license options. Additional proposals have also been suggested, including adding amendments to permit slot machines at O’Hare International Airport outside Chicago.
That body ended its session on 11 January without voting on the bill. This legislation would have to be reintroduced in the new session, which began the day after the last-minute tax increase was passed. However, since the General Assembly has Democratic majorities in both houses, it is probably inevitable that it will again be brought up for a vote.
Illinois operators are quite concerned. These proposals could create new competitors for gaming dollars, severely impacting operators who seek entry as partners into the video-gaming sector of the industry, permissible under the 2009 Video Gaming Act.
The Illinois Coin Machine Operators Association (ICMOA) has activated a response against the legislation. Existing casino operators also oppose the bill, estimating a 50 percent drop in revenues and a 12 percent decline in employment.
To add to the woes of operators, residents and businesses, the state is raising income taxes, calling the move necessary to avoid a larger budget deficit than already exists. These hikes will affect all operators and amusement manufacturers in Illinois, such as Arachnid and Incredible Technologies. Democratic governor Pat Quinn plans to sign it immediately, and it is retroactive to 1 January.
