Chicago Tribune – Illinois regulators are looking at tightening rules on the lucrative video poker market after revelations that those without a license can cash in on the business.
A Tribune investigation this month revealed how some have been able to make money as middlemen in the industry even after being denied licenses or admitting to illegal gambling, despite the state setting up strict vetting requirements.
So far, regulators have been tight-lipped about what changes are under consideration. Illinois Gaming Board members did not address the issue during their public meeting Thursday.
Board Chairman Aaron Jaffe told the Tribune afterward: “We are working on it.” He declined further comment.
The Gaming Board oversees the operation of video gambling in bars across the state, an expansion plan approved by Gov. Pat Quinn in 2009 to help pay for billions in public works projects.
Chicago Crime Commission executive Art Bilek said Thursday that the Gaming Board should change its rules to make it more difficult, if not impossible, for unlicensed middlemen to make money in the industry.
“I’m concerned about it,” Bilek said.
