Rep. Zalewski Expects Online Poker To Be Legal In Illinois ‘Sooner Rather Than Later’

State Representative Michael Zalewski, who has played a crucial role in shaping Illinois gaming laws, is optimistic about the prospects of online poker in the state.

Zalewski appeared on Joe Ostrowski’s weekly gambling show, “Early Odds”, on 670 The Score to discuss the recent passing of HB 3136 by the Senate and House. During the interview, Ostrowski asked Zalewski for an update on the status of online poker in Illinois.

Zalewski said:

I firmly believe that online poker is poised to become the next big trend. I do not make such assertions lightly.

He continued:

As we near the 2023 legislative session, we plan to make use of stimulus funds and investigate ways to increase revenue. I predict that online poker will be a significant topic of discussion soon, with a high likelihood of approval. After experiencing the convenience of the DraftKings app during my time in Michigan, I believe that with the current technology available, legalization of online poker is on the horizon.

Zalewski also mentioned that it is unlikely to happen during the 2022 legislative session, as the main focus will be on the budget and “smaller projects.”

Due to the vibrant Illinois sports betting scene, there is expected to be a high demand for mobile poker in the state. While there may be challenges in passing legislation for online casinos, it is possible that lawmakers would be more inclined to approve poker.

Why online poker would be easier to pass as a one-off in Illinois

Online poker was included in the online casino bills brought before the Senate and House in 2021 but faced obstacles in moving forward. The video gaming terminal (VGT) industry has been a vocal opponent of legalizing online casinos in Illinois, and many politicians are currently aligning with the VGT industry’s stance.

VGTs contribute a substantial amount of tax revenue to the state, so some lawmakers may see no need to disrupt their success.

Because of the characteristics of the games, online poker is perceived as less of a threat to the VGT industry in Illinois. VGT operators are worried about cannibalization, as these machines closely resemble slot machines.

On the other hand, a VGT experience does not accurately replicate the dynamics of real money online poker with multiple players. Therefore, it is difficult to argue that online poker would negatively impact the VGT industry.

Therefore, passing it should be easier than passing online casinos in general.

Zalewski mentioned that he does not expect any major developments in iGaming during the 2022 legislative session, but the outlook could be different in 2023.

Illinois gaming industry is evolving

Zalewski appeared as a guest on Ostrowski’s show to discuss the passing of HB 3136. The legislation sets a deadline of March 5, 2022, for in-person registration and allows betting on Illinois college teams, but only in person.

Zalewski also mentioned that the need for face-to-face meetings would be reassessed in two years.

Once Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker signs HB 3136, Wintrust Arena will be able to apply for a sports betting license. State Representative Zalewski expects that the United Center will also seek a license once Chicago’s laws are modified accordingly.

Even with the current requirement for in-person registration, the sports betting industry in Illinois is thriving. Consistently ranking third in monthly handle among US states, Illinois has the potential to overtake Nevada for the second spot once online registration is allowed again.

Illinois’ significant population, ranking sixth in the country, plays a key role in the success of sports betting and fuels optimism for the future of online poker.

Currently, online poker is permitted in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Michigan, and Nevada. Poker enthusiasts are optimistic that Illinois will join the list of states where it is legal.