Gambling expansion package advances

Friday, May 9, 2003 | 9:59 a.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- As a legislative committee approved part of a massive gambling expansion package, the major players at the state Capitol said the serious work has just begun.

The Illinois House's gambling committee voted 8-2 Thursday for one of three proposals sponsored by Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie -- a package Lang says could wipe out about half of the state's anticipated $5 billion deficit next year.

The measure headed to the House floor would allow hundreds more slot machines at riverboat casinos and put thousands of slots at horse tracks for the first time.

Two other measures sponsored by Lang -- giving Chicago its own casino and legalizing video poker machines at restaurants and bars -- will be brought up for consideration soon, he said.

Although Lang says he's "highly confident" his proposals can pass the Democratic Legislature, gambling interests, fellow lawmakers and even Lang say a deal is a long way away.

"There's going to be a lot of negotiations on that," Senate President Emil Jones, D-Chicago, said.

Gambling expansion has been a popular topic at the Capitol for years, but the final weeks of this spring legislative session may be the best hope for those who see the industry as an untapped gold mine for dwindling state coffers.

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