Lawmakers to try again for gambling expansion in 2012

Lawmakers to try again for gambling expansion in 2012

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Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn says lawmakers will try again this year to pass a gambling expansion bill.

Quinn said on Friday he’s talked with Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Senate President John Cullerton about ways to revive the so-far failed measure in the coming months. But the governor said he’s still against putting slot machines at horse tracks.

“There’s a limit to this, and it’s reasonable limit. It’s got to be done with complete integrity and oversight, and I will insist on that,” said Quinn.

The most recent attempt to pass a gambling expansion came in November, but it was narrowly defeated in the state House. Lawmakers have proposed allowing five new casinos in the state, including one in Chicago.

Quinn has threatened to veto the bill if it doesn’t fit his guidelines.