Frequently Asked Questions about Sports Betting in Illinois
1. When did sports betting become legal in Illinois?
Sports betting became legal in Illinois on June 28, 2019, when Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the gambling expansion bill into law.
2. How did the legalization of sports betting in Illinois come about?
The legalization of sports betting in Illinois was part of a broader gambling expansion bill aimed at increasing state revenue and providing funds for various state programs.
3. What does the law say about sports betting operations in Illinois?
Once sports betting became legal in Illinois, the law allowed for both in-person and online sports betting, with licenses available for casinos and other approved venues.
4. Are there any restrictions on sports betting in Illinois?
Yes, there are several restrictions, such as age limits (you must be 21 or older) and regulations that govern the types of bets that can be placed.
5. When can I start placing bets on sports events in Illinois?
After the law was enacted on June 28, 2019, several licensed sportsbooks began accepting bets shortly after, both in-person and online.
6. Is online sports betting available in Illinois?
Yes, online sports betting became legal in Illinois following the passing of the gambling expansion bill. Players can register and place bets through authorized apps and websites.
7. What are the legal sports betting providers in Illinois?
Many casinos and online operators have received licenses to offer sports betting since it became legal in Illinois, including major names like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers.
8. How does Illinois sports betting compare to other states?
Since sports betting became legal in Illinois, it has become one of the largest markets in the U.S. due to the state's population and the rapid launch of online betting platforms.
9. Are there any taxes on sports betting winnings in Illinois?
Yes, sports betting winnings are subject to both federal and state taxes in Illinois, similar to other gambling winnings.
10. Will there be any future changes to sports betting laws in Illinois?
While no major changes are currently anticipated, lawmakers continue to evaluate and potentially amend regulations as the sports betting landscape evolves in Illinois.