In Illinois, a group is pushing back against Governor J.B. Pritzker’s proposed tax hike on video gambling machines and a state representative wants the games allowed at horse racetracks.
A group called Bet on Main Street has formed in opposition to Pritzker’s proposal to nearly double the tax on video gambling terminal revenue. Currently the 30,000-plus video gambling terminals in operation in bars, veterans and fraternal organizations, truck stops and other establishments pay 30 percent on revenue, which is split between the state and local government—a rate that’s higher than casinos and horse racetracks pay. Pritzker’s proposed budget would increase that tax rate to 50 percent on gambling revenue above $2.5 million. More than 30,000 video gambling terminals currently are operating in the state.
In the past three fiscal years, video gambling terminals have paid $306.2 million, $360.6 million and $421.9 million to the state and local jurisdictions.
Meanwhile, state Rep. Katie Stuart recently launched a petition drive to allow video gaming terminals at Fairmount Park in East St. Louis and other licensed horseracing tracks. “The racetrack at Fairmount Park serves a vital role in the Metro East as entertainment, a major employer and as a community establishment. My petition will show legislators and the governor the vast support for live horseracing in our area and for additional revenue streams to keep Fairmount Park open,” Stuart said.
Earlier this year, Stuart introduced House Bill 3099, which would allow horseracing venues to install up to 150 video gaming terminals. She said the revenue generated by the games would pay for race purses.
The current lack of revenue has forced Fairmount Park to schedule fewer race days for the upcoming seasons, Stuart said. “Giving places like Fairmount Park the ability to install video gaming terminals will level the playing field for tracks, while also protecting jobs that are vital to our local economy. I’m calling on my constituents to voice their support and help me continue the fight for Fairmount Park to prosper again.”
