Illinois remains one of the most active states regarding gambling in the United States. This is evident in the number of land-based casinos in the state. Aside from social games, residents of the Prairie state also conveniently engage in horse racing. The introduction of sports betting, too, has boosted how accepting the state is of gambling.
Unsurprisingly, Illinois earns significantly from casino revenue. For instance, taxes collected at the midpoint of 2022 were 12.3% higher than the previous year. Yet, the iGaming industry has not seen the same level of success. Thus far, the state has not licensed any online casino providers to operate within the state.
Despite these restrictions, the prospect of playing casino games online continues to appeal to many. Perhaps why a lot more players keep searching for online casinos available in Illinois. In line with this, we review the status of iGaming in the state. We also examine how long until players can expect to see online casinos.
iGaming In Illinois
Typically, iGaming refers to all forms of online wagering on the outcome of events over the Internet. The industry encompasses sports betting, poker, and online casinos. Illinois has always allowed horse racing and online lotteries within its shores. Recently, the state added sports betting to the mix. Below are some of the legal wagering options available to residents of Illinois;
- Online Sports Betting
Thus far, seven fully regulated online sports betting operators are in Illinois. This includes some of the top sportsbooks, such as DraftKings and Barstool. These operators provide odds on different live and simulated sporting events.
- Online Lottery
In March of 2012, Illinois launched the online lottery program. This allowed for periodic in-state lotteries and other larger country-wide draws such as Mega Millions. Additionally, residents can engage in other instant-play games at the Illinois Lottery.
The Illinois Lottery is a mobile application where players can check lottery results. Interested players can buy their tickets online or at any retail location.
These options help improve the popularity of iGaming in the state. However, casino games account for the most significant chunk of the iGaming industry. As a result, there is a massive deficiency following restrictions on online casinos.
How Do Players In Illinois Engage In Online Casino Games
Illinois is not the only state to restrict online casinos within its shores. In fact, only six out of all 50 U.S states have legalized online social games. As such, all states yet to accept online casinos are open to another alternative – sweepstakes casinos.
These online sites are entirely legal in all U.S states. Throughout the country, Chumba online casino remains one of the most popular. They offer a wide range of some of the most popular casino games, including slots, roulette, and poker. However, what makes sweepstakes casinos different from regular online casinos?
With sweepstake casinos, players can stake using gold coins. Most times, new players do not have to make deposits before playing. Yet, these gold coins can be used to engage in different tournaments and win real cash.
A major stumbling block to states legalizing online casinos is the issue of “problem gambling.” This focuses on disruptive staking that could affect a player’s daily life. Hence, these casinos become heavily regulated by operating in a sweepstake model. It also hugely minimizes instances of problem gambling.
For gambling enthusiasts in Illinois, we advise against offshore casino sites. Most of these sites are entirely unregulated and offer tons of risks. These sites come with many security issues, and games could be rigged. As such, players are best suited to stick to sweepstake casinos until online casinos become legal.
iGaming Legality In Illinois
The Prairie state has always been a hotspot for gambling activities. This, alongside many gambling enthusiasts, has continued to impact online casino legalization. There is unrelenting pressure on the legislature to permit online casino operators.
However, there is a strong stance against online casinos by land-based operators. This follows claims of online casinos potentially impacting their customer base. Unsurprisingly, this is the case in states where a particular tribe has a vast monopoly on casinos.
There is no specific timeframe as to when online casinos will be allowed. However, there is renewed hope, especially after sports betting legalization. And with poker viewed as a sport, it’s more a matter of when and not if.
There have been attempts by the legislature to change the current status of iGaming in the state. The most recent effort came in the form of the Internet Gambling Act. If successful, this bill would regulate all iGaming activities, including online casinos. But, the bill remains halted till today.
Currently, online casinos are the only aspect remaining for the total legalization of iGaming activities. Hence, residents can remain optimistic their favorite games will be accessible online soon.
