Illinois Governor Quinn Vetoes Bill to Allow Casino in Chicago

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn vetoed a measure today that would have allowed casinos in Chicago and four other cities, calling it “a bad bill” for taxpayers.

An outspoken critic of legalized gambling, Quinn, 64, had repeatedly telegraphed his objections to lawmakers. He vetoed a similar measure in August.

“This bill allows for an excessive expansion that is simply too much, including a casino at the fairgrounds where families bring their children,” Quinn said in a statement.

In addition to the casinos, it would a have allowed slot machines at Chicago airports. Supporters of the bill said gambling houses would spur economic growth in the eastern and northern regions of the state and would draw customers from neighboring Indiana and Wisconsin.

The Democratic governor said any expansion of gambling in the state must come with “comprehensive oversight” and dedicate revenue from the games to support education.

To contact the reporter on this story: Tim Jones in Chicago at tjones58@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Stephen Merelman at smerelman@bloomberg.net