Ill. Legalizes Online Racing Wagering

Illinois has become the latest state to legalize online wagering on horse racing.

Governor Pat Quinn has signed the bill permitting it, and the Illinois Racing Board is busy preparing emergency rules which would provide quick opportunities for citizens to bet on horse racing on their computers.

Board spokesman Mickey Ezzo declined to set a specific timeline, but said the emergency rules will preclude three or four-month delays, and that applications would follow to account wagering firms such as TVG, Youbet and Twin Spires wishing to do business in the state. “We’re getting everything in the pipeline to get it up and going,” Ezzo said.

(With files from Harness Tracks of America)