SPORTS BETTING BILL ADVANCES

Illinois lawmakers have advanced a bill restricting home rule cities from independently regulating sports betting. The move follows Chicago’s recent decision to require its own license and add a 10.25% local tax on sports wagers. State Representative Daniel Didech, who introduced House Bill 4171, argues that a uniform approach is necessary for stability in the industry. Data from the Illinois Gaming Board indicates that legal betting activity has dropped for three straight months since a state per-wager tax took effect last year. The legislation now awaits further debate, sparking questions about the balance between local control and statewide regulation.