Gambling experts set to testify on potential Chicago casino

Illinois lawmakers are trying to negotiate a deal to open a Chicago-owned casino and expand gambling elsewhere in the state, and they believe there’s a clearer path for the proposal to become law than there’s been in years. |Charles Rex Arborgast / AP

Experts in tourism and video gambling are expected to testify before state lawmakers during a hearing on expanded gambling in Illinois.

The panel meets Monday for the second time this month and the focus is expected to be a potential casino in Chicago. Representatives from the Illinois Gaming Machine Operators Association and the Illinois Restaurant Association are scheduled to speak.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel wants a Chicago-owned casino. He says it’ll help bring in desperately needed revenue for the city.

At least two bills calling for casinos are before lawmakers with another in the works.

Gov. Bruce Rauner has said he’s open to more casinos in the state. His predecessor, former Gov. Pat Quinn, twice vetoed gambling expansion legislation.

Last week lawmakers heard experts from around the country about casino trends.

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