In recent comments made to an NPR reporter, Governor Pat Quinn of Illinois indicated that he did not support an online gambling bill that recently passed an Illinois State Senate Committee (and was later updated). The online gambling bill would allow businesses that received the proper licenses from the Illinois Lottery’s Division of Internet Gaming to offer online casino games, not just online poker, to be played for money in the State of Illinois. Governor Quinn, however, does not seem to support the bill:
“I think that’s problematic. It’s a brand new idea and there hasn’t been much review on that at all. Anytime you have something brand new it shouldn’t just be thrown into a bill at the last minute.”
While Governor Quinn’s opposition could represent a setback for proponents of legalized online gambling, the legislative process in Illinois and in countless other states remains a work in progress.
Governor Quinn’s decision will be of significant interest to gaming attorneys and those that follow developments in Internet poker law in general – especially given Illinois’ relatively large population (13 million) which roughly equals the populations of Nevada, New Jersey and Delaware (the 3 states that have legalized online gaming) combined.
If you are interested in learning more about this topic or pursuing a venture in this area, please e-mail us at info@kleinmoynihan.com, or call us at (212) 246-0900.
Attorney Advertising
