Illinois e-News Release

For Immediate Release:
June 12, 2026

For More Information Contact:
Beth Kaufman-312-213-9209
[email protected]

IGB Approves Extensions of Chicago and Waukegan Temporary Casino Operations

Expansion Underway for IGB Responsible Gambling Initiatives 

CHICAGO—The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) approved measures to allow the extension of gambling operations at the Chicago and Waukegan temporary casinos, while the permanent Bally’s Chicago and American Place Casino facilities are under construction. In addition, the IGB shared an update about its ongoing, data-based review of its voluntary Self-Exclusion Program with an announcement about significant enhancements and initiatives forthcoming.

The IGB’s approval of the extensions of temporary casino operations in Chicago and Waukegan follows provisions in the State’s Revenue Omnibus Bill awaiting the Governor’s signature. Once the Governor signs the bill into law, the Board’s action to delegate approval authority to the IGB Administrator allows the extension requests to become effective. 

With the extensions, Bally’s Chicago Operating Company, LLC d/b/a Bally’s Chicago may conduct gaming operations at its temporary facility for an additional 12 months from September 6, 2026 until September 9, 2027. Similarly, FHR-Illinois LLC d/b/a American Place may conduct gaming operations at its temporary Waukegan casino for an additional 18 months from August 18, 2027 until February 17, 2029.

Also at the meeting, IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter discussed that as part of the IGB’s ongoing dedication to support responsible gambling practices and address problem gambling, the agency is working with outside researchers and experts to review and assess potential improvements and modernization to the current Self-Exclusion Program.

“The IGB’s goal is to expand coverage to the Self-Exclusion Program to address existing gaps through research-driven and data-informed changes and enhancements to help ensure the program continues to evolve, serve the needs of participants, and best support individuals in their treatment and recovery from problem gambling without undue barriers,” said IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter. “Among other actions, we are engaged with experts to determine the most viable technical solution to incorporate the Self-Exclusion Program into Illinois video gaming, an agency priority that I have frequently discussed. While we have made no decisions or finalized plans on the technology or implementation methodology, we are committed to achieving this important goal and we are moving forward.” 

Administrator Fruchter said he anticipates the IGB issuing additional updates on these initiatives later this summer.

At the meeting, the Board also acted on other regulatory matters including:

IGB issued casino approvals for:
IGB issued video gaming licenses for:
IGB issued sports wagering approvals for:
The IGB will conduct its next meeting on August 20, 2026. To view the full 2026 meeting schedule, agendas, past meeting minutes, recorded meetings, and other information, visit the IGB website.

Illinois is home to 17 casinos, 13 active and approved sportsbooks, and a network of nearly 9,000 licensed video gaming establishments. Visit the IGB website for a list of licensed and approved sportsbooks, casinos and video gaming operators.

Visit the IGB website for information about the IGB’s Self-Exclusion Program for Problem Gamblers, and problem gambling resources available through the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Behavioral Health & Recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing problems with gambling, please contact the Illinois Gambling Helpline at: AreYouReallyWinning.com, 1-800-GAMBLER, or text to ILGAMB (833234). 

Anyone may confidentially report suspected violations of the Illinois Gambling Act, Video Gaming Act, Sports Wagering Act, IGB Rules, or other prohibited conduct through the IGB’s Prohibited Conduct Reporting Portal or by calling the IGB Hotline at (855) 494-0237.

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