As we head into 2015, some major changes are on the way for our state government. The video gaming industry is ready to work with our new leaders to support our neighborhoods and rebuild our economy.
The industry is doing its part to help get Illinois on track. There are more than 18,600 video gaming machines operating in nearly 4,600 locations around the state. Those machines produced nearly $160 million in state and local tax revenue in 2014 through October.
Those dollars are supporting thousands of local jobs, helping local governments to shore up their budgets and providing critical money for the state’s capital construction program.
This is local entertainment that draws people to bars, restaurants and fraternal organizations and provides hope to so many business owners hurt in recent years by the economic downturn. Video gaming is strictly regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, and our industry made up of responsible small businesses is proud of the progress since video gaming began in fall 2012.
The Illinois Gaming Machine Operators Association and our partners in the Support Main Street Illinois Coalition look forward to educating our new elected officials on how video gaming is making a difference for our state and to working together to keep more entertainment money for local benefit.
Michael Gelatka
President
Illinois Gaming Machine Operators Association