Illinois Gambling Bill Passes Minus Online poker

Thursday May 2, 2013 : SANS ONLINE POKER, ILLINOIS GAMBLING BILL PASSES THROUGH SENATE
 
But measure still faces passage through the House, and an unenthusiastic governor
 
The controversial gambling expansion bill in Illinois, from which an online poker legalization amendment was stripped last week  has successfully passed through the state Senate on a vote of 32 – 20.
 
The bill, which allows slot machines at racetracks in Illinois and five new land casinos in the state, now goes to the House for debate and, if successful there to Governor Pat Quinn's desk for signature or veto. The latter is a real possibility, given the governor's lack of enthusiasm for more gambling, and the fact that he has twice before killed gambling bills.
 
Crain’s Chicago Business reports that the Senate bill includes a provision banning political campaign contributions from owners of casinos, video poker and racetracks.