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Legislation to Legalize Video Poker in Illinois Hits Snag
Video poker games are now legal in Illinois, but legislation intended to work out some of their details has stalled.

The bill, covering a number of issues dealing with the games' ownership and operation, failed to get enough support in the Illinois House during the fall Veto Session.

Among other things, the bill - sponsored by State Representative Lou Lang (D-Skokie) - would give the Illinois Gaming Board the authority to determine how many machines are too many for a single operator; allow a game for a penny as opposed to a nickel; and allow the games in truck stops 24 hours a day.

State Rep. John Fritchey (D-Chicago) was not convinced the bill - which Lang called "clean-up language" - would truly prevent someone from having a monopoly on the video poker business.

Anti-gambling activist Anita Bedell says games in truck stops would prey upon local residents, contradicting gambling proponents' claim that they target tourists.

(Illinois Radio Network)
11 06 09 by Newsroom
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