Bar Owners Like Video Poker

May 31, 2009

Illinois is considering adding video poker to the things that they make legal – only outside the tribal casinos in the state. As of right now residents can play video poker but they have to play it at one of the tribal casinos within the state, or they have to go to another state to do it. But if Illinois goes through with their plan to add legalized video poker in the state they would join only six other states that allow it as well.

The residents of Illinois are excited by the possibility, especially the bar owners. Many of them say that they would like to see legalized video poker because it would mean a large amount of income for bar owners – many of whom offer the games already but for “entertainment purposes only.” They all say that they know of those bar owners that are actually breaking the law and are already offering cash payouts on their poker machines, but they would love to be able to do it legally.

The video poker machines charge their players a nickel a hand and don’t pay anything out. They say that without the video poker machines they would not make it without the games, and by bringing in legalized poker at their locations it would only ensure their success. Many legislators are on board as well because they are aware of how much revenue could come from legalizing video poker – and they would like to see a $29 billion public works program financed.

Enforcement of the current video poker law is spotty at best, with most not being punished for offering it and paying out in cash. Some do get prosecuted however, and earlier this month the state Liquor Control Commission cited five bars for paying out the video poker machines illegally.