For Illinois online poker enthusiasts, the wait for legalized online poker in the state continues as yet another year comes to a close without any legislative action. Despite hopes for a breakthrough in 2021, it seems that Illinois residents will once again have to wait until next year for any progress on the issue.
The push for legalized online poker in Illinois has been ongoing for several years now, with supporters arguing that it could bring in much-needed revenue for the state and provide a safe and regulated environment for players. However, efforts to pass legislation have been stymied by various factors, including concerns over potential competition with the state’s existing gambling industry and disagreements over tax rates and licensing fees.
In 2021, there was some optimism that progress could be made on the issue, particularly given the economic challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Lawmakers were under pressure to find new sources of revenue to help shore up the state’s finances, and online poker was seen as a potential solution.
However, despite several bills being introduced in the state legislature, including a comprehensive gambling expansion package that included provisions for online poker, none of them gained traction. Lawmakers were preoccupied with other pressing issues, and the bills were never brought up for a vote.
As a result, Illinois online poker players will have to wait yet another year for any progress on the issue. The lack of movement on the issue has frustrated many in the online poker community, who feel that Illinois is missing out on a lucrative opportunity.
“It’s disappointing that we’re still in this position after all these years,” said online poker player and Illinois resident Samantha Johnson. “I love playing poker online, and it’s frustrating to see other states reaping the benefits of legalization while we’re stuck in limbo.”
Despite the setbacks, proponents of legalized online poker in Illinois remain hopeful that progress can be made in the future. They point to the success of online poker in other states, such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as evidence that it can be a viable and profitable industry.
“We just have to keep pushing and advocating for online poker in Illinois,” said Mark Davis, a lobbyist for the Illinois Poker Players Alliance. “It’s a matter of when, not if, online poker will be legalized in our state. We have to stay patient and keep working towards that goal.”
For now, Illinois online poker players will have to bide their time and continue playing on offshore sites, hoping that next year will finally bring the breakthrough they’ve been waiting for. Until then, the dream of legal and regulated online poker in Illinois remains just out of reach.
