According to a report, Illinois Horseman's Benevolent and Protective Association Executive Director Lonny Brooks believes that Governor Bruce Rauner will pass a gaming expansion bill if it is to reach his desk.

As explained in an article by the Belleville News-Democrat, Brooks has said that Gov. Rauner appears to be more open to the possibility of gaming expansion than former Gov. Pat Quinn was. Quinn had vetoed a pair of gaming expansion bills during his reign.

The report has quoted Brooks as saying “as opposed to Pat Quinn, Gov. Rauner has said he is OK on gambling.” Brooks also said, “He (Gov. Rauner) has also said that although he is not a gambler, he has said that it should be left up to local communities.”

Last week, the Governnor’s press secretary, Catherine Kelly, sent out a statement that said “Gov. Rauner believes decisions on gambling should be done in close consultation with the local communities.”

It has also been reported that a pair of gaming expansion bills have been introduced in the state, one that deals specifically with the possible addition of Instant Racing terminals at state racetracks, and the other which pertains to slots at racetracks.

(With files from the Belleville News-Democrat)