The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has made significant moves by approving the ownership transfer of a Collinsville racetrack and sportsbook. This transfer involves Fairmount Park, which operates under the name FanDuel Sportsbook and Horseracing. The ownership will shift from Fairmount Holdings to Accel Entertainment, which plans to introduce a temporary racino by April.
New Regulations to Combat Human Trafficking
In addition to the ownership change, the IGB has implemented new regulations aimed at addressing human trafficking in casinos across Illinois. According to the Board, this rule mandates that all casino employees undergo human trafficking recognition training. Additionally, casinos must develop reporting protocols and meet specific signage requirements.
IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter explained the urgency of these regulations. “Human trafficking is a significant problem that demands action from the public, corporate and private sectors. Human traffickers often target casinos and hospitality venues to conduct their activities,” he stated. Fruchter emphasized the IGB’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure gaming environment in Illinois. He added that the Board has a crucial role in ensuring that casino operators provide the necessary training and implement effective reporting measures.
Expanding Support for Problem Gamblers
The IGB is also seeking public input on potential regulations that would include video gaming in the Self-Exclusion Program for problem gamblers. Currently, video gaming is not part of this program, a gap that Fruchter aims to address. “When video gaming was first legalized in 2009 and became operational in 2012, video gaming was not incorporated into the Self-Exclusion Program,” he explained.
Fruchter believes that future rulemaking would create a more consistent framework for supporting problem gamblers across all gaming formats in Illinois. By integrating video gaming into the Self-Exclusion Program, the Board hopes to enhance resources and assistance available to those struggling with gambling addiction.
Overall, the Illinois Gaming Board’s recent decisions represent a proactive approach to both regulatory oversight and community safety. As the state continues to evolve its gaming landscape, these changes aim to foster a responsible and secure gaming environment for all residents.
The post Illinois Gaming Board Approves Ownership Transfer and New Regulations for Statewide Casinos appeared first on iGaming.org.