Sweepstakes gambling machine ban approved by City Council committee
A City Council committee approved an ordinance to ban sweepstakes gambling machines, a move opposed by Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration.Summary
A City Council panel approved an ordinance Tuesday to ban sweepstakes gambling terminals, which operate in a legal gray area. The Committee on License and Consumer Protection voted in favor of the measure proposed by Ald. Anthony Beale, despite objections from the Johnson administration. The ban targets machines that avoid regulation by not offering cash payouts. The proposal still requires full City Council approval. The move is part of a broader debate on regulating gambling in Chicago amid fiscal challenges. Beale, a mayoral opponent, led the charge, arguing the city has not benefited from the machines and that the state would crack down if Chicago allowed them. Commissioner Ivan Capifali testified against the ban, citing concerns about aligning fee structures and avoiding burdensome regulations. The ordinance would take effect 10 days after passage and impose fines and license suspensions for non-compliance. The vote comes as the city grapples with the 2026 budget, which includes a clause legalizing video gambling machines, an effort Johnson's administration has said requires more time.
(Source：Chicago Tribune)