I am convinced that some of our state lawmakers are addicted to the idea of gambling as an indirect tax and revenue source. Last week we alerted you to three other bills which would greatly expand gambling in Illinois.

Lawmakers have introduced a new bill, and it looks like it is on a fast track to passage before the end of this week. An amendment to HB 4927 will legalize penny slot machines, round-the-clock video gambling at truck stops, and allow video gambling operations near day care centers, pre-schools, youth centers, community colleges, and universities.

Take ACTION: Don’t delay in speaking out! This and the other gambling bills are moving fast!  Contact your lawmakers an email or a fax to tell them “NO MORE GAMBLING — PERIOD.”

Our friends at ILCAAAP also tell us that there may be a new bill for slots at the racetracks being worked out and could come out later today. This could transform Illinois’ 6 racetracks into land-based casinos.

A Second Level of Concern

On page 14 of this amendment, “school” is defined to mean “an elementary or secondary public school, or an elementary or secondary private school registered with or recognized by the State Board of Education. “School” does not include a day care center or a home school. [Emphasis added.]

Illinois law has traditionally recognized home schools as private schools. By specifically not including home schools in the definition, our lawmakers are setting a dangerous precedent that could lead to the erosion of home education liberties. This is completely unacceptable.