Illinois Proposes Raising Casino Table Game Taxes

Governor's budget plan would restructure tax rates on table games at 15 of the state's 16 casinos.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The governor of Illinois has proposed restructuring the tax rate on table games at 15 of the state's 16 casinos, excluding those located in Chicago. The budget plan also calls for the creation of a new Illinois Department of Gaming Regulation and Enforcement (IDGRE) and would redirect 10% of video gaming terminal revenue to a newly created State Facilities Repair and Maintenance Fund.

Why it matters

The proposed changes to casino table game taxes and the creation of a new gaming regulatory body could have significant financial implications for Illinois' gaming industry and state budget. This move is part of the governor's broader efforts to generate new revenue streams and improve oversight of the state's gambling operations.

The details

Under the governor's budget proposal, the tax rate on table games at 15 of Illinois' 16 casinos would be restructured. The changes would not apply to the casino located in Chicago. Additionally, the plan calls for the creation of a new Illinois Department of Gaming Regulation and Enforcement (IDGRE) to oversee the state's gaming operations. The budget also proposes redirecting 10% of video gaming terminal revenue to a newly created State Facilities Repair and Maintenance Fund.

  • The governor's budget proposal was released on February 26, 2026.

The players

Illinois Governor

The current governor of Illinois, who has proposed the changes to casino table game taxes and the creation of a new gaming regulatory body as part of the state's budget plan.

Illinois Department of Gaming Regulation and Enforcement (IDGRE)

A new state agency that would be created to oversee Illinois' gaming operations under the governor's budget proposal.

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What’s next

The Illinois state legislature will need to review and approve the governor's budget proposal, including the changes to casino table game taxes and the creation of the IDGRE, before they can be implemented.

The takeaway

The proposed changes to casino table game taxes and the creation of a new gaming regulatory body in Illinois are part of the governor's efforts to generate additional revenue and improve oversight of the state's gambling industry. If approved, these measures could have significant financial and regulatory implications for the state's casino operators.