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Illinois Could Legalize Online Poker

Legislation Filed Wednesday That Would Authorize Activity

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Coupled with an effort to increase brick-and-mortar gaming in Illinois, some lawmakers are looking again at web gaming. A bill filed Wednesday would authorize Internet games.

According to the bill, Illinois residents already gamble online. The state wants a piece of the action and to create “consumer protections.”

The legislation would allow the state to potentially enter into deals with other jurisdictions in order to create more liquidity for the industry.

It will cost $250,000 to apply for an Internet gaming license in Illinois, and if approved for one, firms will have to pay the state a $20 million fee.

According to The News-Gazette, a state lawmaker said online gaming could bring the state $150 million a year. The bill reportedly could be up for full Senate vote on Thursday.

Illinois has 12.8 million people.