Betting regulators within the state of Illinois are going through critics who’re vocalizing their opposition to the 50-cent betting tax proposal.
The opposition stems from criticism of the Chicago Monetary Future Job Drive’s (CFFTF) most up-to-date publication on the monetary way forward for Chicago, the state’s largest metropolis.
Illinois betting tax not supported by all events
The Choices for Chicago’s Monetary Future report was revealed within the third quarter of 2025, and on the doorstep of one of the crucial vital sporting milestones, the NFL season’s beginning whistle.
The proposals within the doc embrace a 50-cent tax on any wager inside the metropolis limits of Chicago, with a projected income of $9 million to $17 million from the betting tax.
The Chicago Metropolis Council had prompted the transfer from the CFTTF and supported the choice so as to add a tax to the charges paid to the most important licensed operators within the state.
The Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) posted its opposition to the plan so as to add “on prime of the state’s per-wager tax, which was enacted July 1 and carried out by most sports activities betting firms on Sept. 1. If adopted, a $1 guess positioned in Chicago would include a 100% tax fee of $1.”
Along with considerations in regards to the wager tax improve, the SBA has fears that this transfer will immediate extra customers to hunt out unlawful betting choices.
Unlawful betting is rampant in Illinois say key figures
Legal professional Normal Kwame Raoul revealed a statement and penned a letter to U.S. Legal professional Normal Pam Bondi in regards to the subject of illegal betting that’s seemingly “rampant” inside the state.
“These operations (unlawful playing) additionally improve the tax burden for all taxpayers, as states are compelled to make up for billions in misplaced gaming income. I urge the DOJ to prioritize enforcement towards unlawful offshore gaming operations, upholding the rule of regulation and defending states and our residents within the course of,” mentioned Raoul.
In a report revealed by the Higher Enterprise Bureau (BBB), highlighted by the SGA, the group has warned customers that unlawful playing is a rising menace in 2025.
“It may be laborious for customers to inform the distinction between a official bookkeeper, on line casino or betting firm and people in search of to deceive or steal from the general public,” mentioned the BBB.
Featured picture: Canva.
The submit 50-cent Illinois betting tax gains additional criticism from Chicago Financial Future Task Force appeared first on ReadWrite.

