Illinois race tracks have been proposing new laws in the state that would allow the tracks to have slot machines. The tracks have been pushing the measure for several years, since the economic recession, but lawmakers have been slow to act. As another session passes, the tracks are again left waiting.
Legislators were close to passing the gambling expansion law at the beginning of this year, but they feared that the governor would veto the bill. That fear caused the lawmakers to not even vote on the legislation, and it has some in the state puzzled.
"Why they wouldn't even attempt to pass the law is somewhat baffling," said Randy Meyers. "The tracks obviously need the help financially, and it is not like we don't have casino gambling already, so I see no reason why the state wouldn't just give these tracks the relief they need."
Neighboring states have added slot machines at their tracks, and that has made it increasingly difficult for Illinois tracks to compete. In addition, racing has lost some of the popularity it enjoyed several decades ago, leading to more financial struggles even for facilities that do offer slot gambling.
Legislators were close to passing the gambling expansion law at the beginning of this year, but they feared that the governor would veto the bill. That fear caused the lawmakers to not even vote on the legislation, and it has some in the state puzzled.
"Why they wouldn't even attempt to pass the law is somewhat baffling," said Randy Meyers. "The tracks obviously need the help financially, and it is not like we don't have casino gambling already, so I see no reason why the state wouldn't just give these tracks the relief they need."
Neighboring states have added slot machines at their tracks, and that has made it increasingly difficult for Illinois tracks to compete. In addition, racing has lost some of the popularity it enjoyed several decades ago, leading to more financial struggles even for facilities that do offer slot gambling.
