February 23, 2007
Gambling Action Alert
HB 480 on "hold" - HB 1124 sent to the House for a Vote
HB 1124 expands gambling in every community statewide
Grassroots activists from Chicago, Doug Dobmeyer and Jeanie Evans, Pastor Glenn Stewart from Waukegan and Anita Bedell from ILCAAAP testified before the House Gaming Committee to oppose the massive gambling expansion bill (HB 480). Gambling interests filled the room, but they did not support the bill. Rep. Lang will continue to meet with gambling interests and make changes to HB 480 before calling the bill for a vote in the House.
The House Gaming Committee passed a bill to legalize gambling contests on electronic video games in bars, restaurants, bowling alleys, truck stops, convenience stores, arcades, and other locations. HB 1124 defines a bona fide contest as being between 2 or more individuals. Hundreds of thousands of such "contests" could be played throughout the state each year. Many children and young people already play electronic video games. The rate of compulsive gambling is much higher for adolescents than for adults. Prizes, awards or compensation would attract young people to this type of activity, and many would become addicted to gambling.
Research has shown that gamblers take more risks and play longer when they are drinking. Gambling in bars, restaurants, and bowling alleys where alcohol is served will encourage people to stay longer to gamble and drink. The National Gambling Impact Study Commission received testimony that convenience gambling, such as electronic devices in neighborhood outlets, provides fewer economic benefits and creates potentially greater social costs by making gambling more available and accessible.
For Immediate Action
- Call your State Representative (217-782-2000) and ask him/her to Vote NO on HB 1124 to legalize gambling on electronic video games. This is an expansion of gambling in every community.
- Share this Action Alert with your church, synagogue, or mosque and ask people to call make calls.
- Forward to 8 others.