News Local/State

Head of State Gaming Board Opposed to Gaming Bill

 

Supporters of gambling expansion are refining legislation to improve its chances, but the Illinois Gaming Board chairman still has major concerns.

Aaron Jaffe says he has submitted a memo to a Senate committee detailing his concerns including oversight of a proposed Chicago site. 

In it, he questions why rules are different for the Chicago casino. Also, he's concerned about which authorities would have jurisdiction, State Police or Chicago police.

This month Jaffe and Senate committee members got in a heated argument about gaming.

Gambling expansion advocates say Jaffe's concerns are unwarranted. Jaffe says he's open to working with lawmakers to craft better language.

Gov. Pat Quinn has already vetoed two gambling bills that have called for five new casinos, including one in Danville. 

Senate President John Cullerton plans to strip language legalizing Internet gaming.