October 13th, 2018.
Client: Rivers Casino
Source: Daily Herald
“Casino revenue was led by Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, which was one of only two casinos to post an increase from 2017 to 2018. The other casino to generate more revenue last year was the Joliet Hollywood Casino.
The introduction of video gambling has eroded casino revenue over the years. Despite that, there is a push to add a casino in Chicago and up to five more throughout the state. There’s also been talk of increasing the casinos’ gaming positions.
“We don’t think we need any more brick and mortar casinos in the state,” said Tom Swoik, executive director the Illinois Casino Gaming Association. “We do think the legalization of sports betting will help now that the Supreme Court has ruled states can allow it if they want.”
Casinos are pushing for legislation to allow betting on sports within the casinos or online using the casinos’ wagering platforms. Swoik estimates sports betting would generate roughly $50 million to $100 million a year in tax revenue for the state. He added the key is not making the tax too high that people will continue to bet illegally with bookies.”