Common sense in government is typically in short supply, but occasionally something truly stands out as absurd.
On Thursday, according to Capitol News Illinois and the Illinois Answers Project, the state Gaming Board approved new rules expanding enrollment options for a program allowing people to request exclusion from legalized betting opportunities. They’re overdue steps in a wise direction.
We already have 16,000 people signed up – a state study estimates 383,000 adults already have a problem, and 761,000 are at risk – to be banned for five years or longer. Doing so requires a visit to one of 32 sites, half of which are inside casinos. Getting off the list involves written proof from a certified counselor.
Getting on the list, however, will still be too complicated in the sense that there shouldn’t be any barrier at all, outside of proof of identity. And there’s no quick or inexpensive fix to offering a self-ban on access to more than 50,000 video gaming terminals at almost 9,000 locations.
Everyone saw these issues coming when Illinois expanded legalized gambling. That solutions remain elusive is evidence of either bad planning or willful ignorance. Casinos and sportsbooks will survive without addicts; state rules should singularly focus on relief.
MAILBAG: AO, on undecided voters: “Perhaps one way of getting voters out to vote is simply to talk up the options available to those who think it’s a waste of time. Columnists like you and newspaper editors could more enthusiastically describe the people and platforms of third-party candidates and why they’re important to our democracy.
“For example, I’m aware that the American Solidarity Party in Illinois is not a bunch of wild-eyed crazies but offers a platform based on well-established Christian social justice principles and is offering a write-in candidate for governor.
“Civics books explain the value of third parties. I’d think voters, dismayed by the polarized world of the red and blue who count votes instead of principle, would be attracted to a fresh approach and opportunity to make a difference if they get over their indifference.”
RW, on Illinois granting wide latitude to home brewers while maintaining strict limits on personal marijuana cultivation: “The majority of the weed I grow is turned into tincture [liquid drops], which I use to treat my condition. I go through the trouble and cost of getting a medical card so I can grow a few plants at home.
“In Minnesota, Michigan and even in Ohio, it’s legal to home grow within the parameters of the law. I’ve written my state senator and state representative, as well as the Cannabis Regulation Oversight Office. I’ve only received unsatisfactory replies.
“All I want are the same rights and responsibilities that a home brewer has.”
• Scott T. Holland writes about state government issues for Shaw Local News Network. He can be reached at sholland@shawmedia.com.
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September 9, 2026 at 10:02AM
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