Odds On Racing - Harness Racing

Slots now possible at Illinois Tracks

May 23, 2005

Last Wednesday it was reported by several Illinois newspapers that Gov. Rod Blagojevich is considering allowing slot machines at Illinois racetracks. Legislators and Blagojevich have been working together for months to try to find a solution to help the state of llinois to the tune of $1 billion.

Slots have been an issue amongst politicans for years now. However, they could come to fruition with this most recent turn by Blagojevich. Previously, he stated he was opposed to such an expansion and last year said "no" to slots at the tracks. But Illinois lawmakers, along with the Governor, are contemplating new ways to generate cash for the state's ailing budget.

Word is that a proposal has been initiated that would allow the state's five racetracks to
buy slot machines at $50,000 apiece in hopes of coming up with $177.5 million for state spending. It would also allow the existing riverboats to garner additional slots, to the tune of 4,500. Currently they are allowed up to 1,200 gaming positions (slots).