An amended bill that would legalize and regulate fantasy sports in Illinois is one step closer to becoming law, despite strong opposition from other gambling stakeholders and the Illinois Gaming Board.
In a 9-4 vote following heated testimony and concerns that the bill was being rushed, the House Criminal Law Committee today sent House Bill 4323, known as the Fantasy Contests Act, to the House floor.
State lawmakers in the House could vote on the bill, authored by Rep. Mike Zalewski, D-Riverside, as soon as tomorrow.
“Constituents of ours play these games regardless of whether we agree with their decision to do so,” Zalewski testified today in Springfield. “This is an opportunity to create a safe place for these games to occur. We have an opportunity to pass one of the most comprehensive daily fantasy sports laws in the country.”
Crain’s Business
Casinos, Illinois Gaming Board fight fantasy sports measure
By Danny Ecker