Illinois' Big Gambling Expansion

States around the US seem to be turning to gambling as a sure fired way to plug holes in growing budget deficits. And Illinois is leading the charge.

It's long been held as the conventional economic wisdom...in tough times people keep on gambling. And gambling spurs economic activity and generates much needed tax revenues for cash strapped governments.

The Illinois state legislature is one of many who have taken this conventional wisdom on board and recently passed paws that will see a massive expansion in gambling with in the state.

The state House and Senate last week voted in favor of the legalization of video poker machines in bars, restaurants, veterans halls and trucks stops across the state. The purchase of lottery tickets online was also given the go-ahead. Estimates have put additional government revenues from the video poker machines and additional lottery ticket sales at $350 million and $175 million respectively.

Days later, another gambling related Bill was before the senate. This time, it involved approvals for the construction of a new casino in Chicago, and three others elsewhere in Illinois. The senate approved the bill with a 30-28 vote. The legislation will now be voted on by the house, and if approved, pave the way for the State's largest ever gambling expansion.

Both moves come amidst protests from anti-gambling groups like Illinois' Anti-Gambling Task Force. One spokesperson said "Making mini casinos in bars and restaurants and clubs throughout the state is no way to fund new school buildings."