The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) held its first meeting of 2025 on February 6, chaired by Charles Schmadeke with members Brannon and Stephen Ferrara in attendance. Ferrara, a CPA and former COO of BDO until his 2024 retirement, replaces Jim Kolar, who stepped down in December. Here’s everything you need to know!
Administrator’s Update
Administrator Marcus Fruchter opened the meeting by acknowledging written public comments on self-exclusion programs and cashless gaming, now available on the IGB website. These comments are under review.
Fruchter also reminded Terminal Operators (TOs) about Rule 250(p), which mandates the removal of Video Gaming Terminals (VGTs) that remain non-operational for more than 72 hours. He encouraged TOs to notify the IGB about any challenges to compliance.
Economic Overview
Fruchter shared updated gaming industry data for Illinois:
- Casinos: 16 total, generating $157M AGR in December, with $40.8M in state taxes and $10M for host communities.
- Sportsbooks: 16 licensed (14 operational), generating $154.6M AGR in November, contributing $48.2M in state tax and $1.5M to Cook County.
- Video Gaming: 58 TOs, 8,636 establishments (6,413 with more than five VGTs), and 48,628 active VGTs. In December, VGTs generated $256.7M in NTI, yielding $89.8M in tax revenue ($76.6M for the state, $13.2M for municipalities).
Delegation of Authority
The Board renewed its Delegation of Authority to the Administrator, allowing gaming operations to run efficiently by handling certain actions without waiting for board meetings. Chairman Schmadeke noted one change: the Administrator will no longer have authority to settle disciplinary complaints in video gaming matters.
Licensing Decisions
The IGB issued new TO licenses to Rise2Shine Gaming, LLC, and Game Gurus, LLC, along with 5 Technician licenses, 117 Terminal Handler licenses, and 96 Establishment licenses. The Shine Box Bar, LLC received a Notice of Denial.
The Board also reversed its December denial of The 143 Hideout LLC’s license. After accepting responsibility and paying a $1,500 fine, the establishment received its license.
Economic Disassociation Orders
The IGB ordered Gold Rush Amusements, Inc. and Accel Entertainment Gaming, LLC to disassociate from former sales agent Brad Michael Grenoble. Grenoble allegedly offered inducements to secure a Use Agreement. Gold Rush self-reported the issue and terminated Grenoble, while Accel unknowingly hired him but later dismissed him. The IGB commended both companies for their integrity and self-regulation.
The next IGB meeting is scheduled for March 13. Don’t forget to follow Universal Gaming Group on LinkedIn for ongoing updates, industry news and more gaming insights!
Universal Gaming Group advocates for responsible gambling.
Must be 21 or older to game. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or text “GAMB” to 833234. Individuals can enroll in the IGB Self-Exclusion Program at all of the IGB offices located at all casinos. Additional information can be found at https://www.igb.illinois.gov/selfexclusion.
