A new bill introduced in the Illinois House of Representatives could expand oversight of the state’s gaming industry by creating a new position within the Illinois Gaming Board.
House Bill 5742, filed Thursday by Democratic Rep. Yolanda Morris, proposes amending the Illinois Gambling Act to establish a gaming oversight officer. Morris represents the 9th Illinois House District in Chicago.
Under the proposal, the speaker of the House would appoint the oversight officer after consulting with the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus. The officer would be responsible for collecting industry data, recommending updates to gaming rules and policies, coordinating regulatory and taxation efforts statewide, and promoting diversity initiatives within the gaming sector.
The measure would also allow the oversight officer to hire staff, with funding provided by the gaming board.
The Illinois Gaming Board regulates casinos, video gambling terminals, and sports betting operations across the state. However, wagers on horse racing are overseen by a separate body, the Illinois Racing Board. Horse racing remains the only type of animal racing permitted in Illinois, including events held at tracks in Chicago and at Fairmount Park Racetrack.
According to state figures, Illinois has 17 operating casinos.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/02/23/117726-proposed-bill-would-add-gaming-oversight-officer-to-illinois-gaming-board
