April 16, 2008

Gambling Action Alert

SB 2099 and SB 2702 go to the Senate – Call TODAY!

The Senate Revenue Committee approved amendment 3 to SB 2099 to legalize an Internet Lottery Pilot Program. The 3-4 year program would allow people 18 and over to purchase Lotto and Mega Million tickets on the Internet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Approximately 25-33% of Lottery sales come from these games. This is an expansion of gambling into every home or office with a computer. This “sweetheart deal” could be worth millions to the private vendor who gets this contract.

Gambling addicts, the poor, and young people will be able to gamble from the convenience of their homes, cell phones, or blackberries. Studies have shown that 5% of the people who gamble on the Lottery purchase 51% of the Lottery tickets. The safeguards and limitations are inadequate to prevent gambling addicts and young people from gambling on the Internet.

The Senate Executive Committee approved SB 2702 to legalize Advance Deposit Wagering and Internet gambling on horse racing. This is a huge expansion of gambling. Racetracks have already entered into contracts with online gambling companies. SB 2702 would allow fees and money wagered on Advance Deposit Wagering illegally and held in escrow to be paid out with no legal action taken.

SB 2099 and SB 2702 could be called for a vote tomorrow--the deadline to pass bills in the Senate.

For Immediate Action

1. Call your State Senator (217-782-2000) and ask him/her to vote NO on SB 2099 to expand gambling on the Internet for the Lottery and vote NO on SB 2702 to expand gambling on horse racing on the Internet.
2. Share this Action Alert with your church, synagogue, or mosque.
3. Read ILCAAAP's Position Statements on SB 2099 and SB 2702

[ Legislative Information ] - [ Action Alerts ] - [ SB 2099 Position Statement ] - [ SB 2702 Position Statement ]