Internet Gaming Bill Could Bring Online Poker, Blackjack, Roulette And Slots To Illinois

Written By Joe Boozell on April 1, 2021Last Updated on February 15, 2022
illinois online casino bill games

In February, Illinois State Representative Bob Rita proposed a bill for online casinos, sparking curiosity among Illinois residents about the possibility of expanded online gambling options in the state.

Additionally, it is important to take into account the availability of online casino games for residents of Illinois in the event that the legislation is approved.

We have thoroughly examined the bill and have a solid understanding of the operators who are expected to join the legal online casino market in Illinois. This knowledge enables us to determine the types of games these operators currently offer in other states where they are operating legally.

Online casinos are officially permitted in Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey.

Residents of Illinois can expect certain outcomes if an online casino is unsuccessful.

There should be a wide selection of online casino games available in Illinois.

HB 3142 requires that online versions of slot machines, table games, and poker be made available. Additionally, the bill mandates that live dealer versions of casino games be simulcasted online.

Illinois residents are likely to have access to the following games for online play.

  • Baccarat
  • Blackjack
  • Craps
  • Poker
  • Roulette
  • Slingo
  • Slots
  • online casino

The gambling industry in Illinois should provide a wide variety of popular casino games, although this list is not comprehensive.

Illinois residents can access both live dealer and non-live dealer versions of the bill based on their needs.

The main distinction between the two is that having a live dealer allows you to observe your dealer’s broadcast in real-time, creating a more immersive gaming experience.

Which Illinois-based virtual casino operators are there?

The bill allows for up to 36 coats, but Illinois may have difficulty reaching this ambitious goal.

However, if the act is approved, it could lead to a notable increase in the number of online casino operators in Illinois.

We have compiled a list of potential operators by considering Illinois sportsbook operators, existing market access agreements, and operators from other states.

Once again, this is not a complete record. If Illinois decides to legalize online casinos, we anticipate more providers applying for licenses.

Why Illinois is a desirable location for online games

Illinois, the fifth-most populous state in the US, has proven the great success of sports betting in the Prairie State.

Illinois’ sports betting market has now exceeded $2 billion in handle, potentially placing it among the top three states in terms of monthly handle. Only New Jersey, Nevada, and Pennsylvania currently have higher handles.

The success in the online casino market should be evident as Michigan recorded an impressive revenue of almost $80 million in its first full month.

In Illinois, known for its thriving sports betting industry, users set a new record in January by wagering $49 million.

Illinois and Massachusetts each have 10 games, which may seem like a lot, but given the size of these states, it is actually quite reasonable. In contrast, neighboring Wisconsin has 26 casinos, and Iowa has 23.

Illinois has been slow to make progress in hosting six new casinos, but this delay has created a lucrative online casino market due to the limited number of physical casino options in the state.