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Chicago Lawmakers Pushing to Legalize Video Gambling

Originally posted on Action Network | By Dave Grendzynski | Last updated Jul 21, 2025 6:49 AM ET

City Council members in Chicago are looking to bring video gambling to both O’Hare and Midway airports and all around the city. They think this could be a great way to make money and offer more entertainment options.

Not everyone is convinced, though. Mayor Brandon Johnson’s team is worried that the money the city might make won’t be enough to justify legalizing gambling. Despite these concerns, some council members are excited about the possibilities.

At a recent City Council meeting, two new proposals were introduced to get the ball rolling on this idea. This, while work continues on the city’s brick-and-mortar casino.

What Would a New Ordinance Change in Chicago?

Video gambling was made legal in Illinois back in 2009, but Chicago has stayed out of it. To start participating, Chicago would need to change its laws.

Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Legalization would require Chicago to “opt in” by passing a new ordinance, allowing it to share in state tax revenue from video gambling and potentially generate additional local fees.

Airport Gambling: One ordinance would permit the installation of hundreds of video gambling machines beyond the security checkpoints at O’Hare and Midway Airports.
Citywide Gambling: The other ordinance seeks to lift Chicago’s longstanding citywide ban on video gambling terminals, allowing local bars and restaurants to offer these machines as a means to bolster their revenues.

Both ordinances were introduced at the last Council session before the August 2025 recess, meaning substantive debate and a vote are expected later in the year.

If approved, the city could earn money from state taxes on video gambling and also charge additional local fees.

Chicago Mayor Not Fully On Board

Alderman Gilbert Villegas is the chair of the Committee on Economic, Capital and Technology Development, and is a key proponent of video gambling. He has indicated that starting it at the airports might be an “easier lift” politically before expanding to citywide legalization.

Mayor Brandon Johnson’s financial team remains skeptical, arguing that the potential revenue from video gambling may not justify the policy shift, especially with concerns about social impacts and questions about just how much additional revenue would actually be generated for the city.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Image Credit: Jasper Colt / USA TODAY NETWORK

There are also concerns about the impact of new gambling opportunities on existing businesses and whether they’ll really bring in the forecasted revenue. Some studies suggest that the income might not be as high as hoped and could potentially detract from traditional slot machine earnings at the Chicago casino.

Some neighboring suburbs with video gambling terminals have seen significant revenue increases, contributing to both city budgets and state funds. Proponents argue citywide gambling could offer a lifeline to struggling hospitality businesses, while critics warn of significant social and regulatory concerns.

What’s Next For Gambling Ordinances in Chicago?

The Council’s renewed push coincides with talks in Springfield about expanding online (internet) gambling, and amidst ongoing expansions of sports betting and casino-style gambling options throughout Illinois.

The discussion is ongoing, with further hearings and debates expected.

If handled wisely, this venture could not only support Chicago’s financial needs but also boost local businesses, providing a much-needed economic lifeline. The balance between opportunity and oversight will be crucial as Chicago navigates this new frontier in video gambling.

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