Supreme Court Decision Opens Doors to Sports Gambling in Illinois
A United States Supreme Court decision made Monday could pave the way for legalized sports betting in Illinois. In a 6-3 vote, the Court struck down a 1992 law which barred state authorized gambling on sports. "Congress can regulate sports gambling directly, but if it elects not to do so, each state is free to act on its own," said Justice Samuel Alito, who delivered the majority opinions. "Our job is to interpret the law Congress has enacted and decide whether it is consistent with the constitution." Illinois is one of several states with legislation in the works to legalize the practice. Lawmakers in Springfield are working on a law which would allow gambling on amateur, professional and college games, and casinos to take bets in person and online. The state would then tax the industry. (Illinois Patch)