CHICAGO, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) approved a wide range of gaming licenses and regulatory measures today during its regularly scheduled meeting, which marked the final session presided over by Chairman Charles Schmadeke as he prepares to step down on July 1.

Chairman Schmadeke, who has led the IGB for nearly six years, was recognized for his integrity, leadership, and contributions to the evolving gaming landscape in Illinois. Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter praised Schmadeke’s tenure, noting his guidance during periods of significant transition, including gaming expansion, modernization efforts, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Through it all, Chairman Schmadeke remained steadfast in his support for IGB staff and unwavering in his commitment to gaming integrity, ethics, and the rule of law,” Fruchter said.

In his closing remarks, Schmadeke reflected on the mission of the IGB: “Our goal has always been that gaming should benefit all of Illinois, and we’ve worked to ensure all Illinoisans participate in those benefits.”

During the meeting, the IGB adopted a proposed amendment to video gaming Rule 1800.550, designed to streamline licensing processes for video gaming professionals, increasing operational efficiency without compromising regulatory integrity. The proposal will now proceed to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) for further review.

Licensing actions taken by the Board included:

Casino Licenses:

  • Approval of 1 key person license
  • 2 Level 1 occupational licenses
  • 235 Level 2 and 3 occupational licenses
  • 3 occupational license applications denied

Video Gaming Licenses:

  • Approval of 2 terminal operator applicants
  • 108 video gaming location applicants
  • 37 terminal handlers and 1 technician
  • Denial of 2 video gaming locations and 1 terminal operator

Sports Wagering Licenses:

  • 3 initial supplier licenses
  • 174 Level 1, 2, and 3 occupational licenses
  • Renewal of one Master Sports Wagering license for Bally’s Quad Cities
  • Approval of a Level 2 occupational license following an Administrative Law Judge’s recommendation

The Board also issued a public reminder to avoid illegal or unregulated gaming options such as unlicensed “sweepstakes” machines, and encouraged individuals facing gambling problems to seek help through the Illinois Self-Exclusion Program or by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.

The next IGB meeting is scheduled for July 31.