IL SPORTS BETTING DECLINES AGAIN

Illinois’ legal sports betting industry is experiencing challenges, with the latest Gaming Board report revealing a decline for the fifth month in a row. The slowdown follows the introduction of a per-wager tax last year. Industry group Sports Betting Alliance highlights a 20% dip in legal wagers during the Chicago Bears’ playoff run—typically a peak wagering period. The group warns that higher taxes may be pushing bettors to unregulated online sites and bookies, undermining the state’s efforts to control and profit from the market. This trend raises concerns about future state revenue and consumer protections.