Illinois lawmakers included a license extension for Bally’s Chicago casino within the state’s omnibus revenue bill, SB3019. The legislation passed on 1 June and now awaits Governor JB Pritzker’s signature, resolving a deadline that originally required the temporary facility to close on 9 September.
Extension Terms and Regulatory Limits
The revenue bill moves the temporary license expiration to 9 September 2027. Under the new provisions, the Illinois Gaming Board may extend the operating period by up to 18 months and approve two additional three-month extensions. State regulations normally cap temporary licenses at two years, but Bally’s already received a 12-month extension in 2023. Accounting for the time the temporary venue has already operated, the maximum remaining extension totals 12 months if all additional periods are approved.Legislative Background and Project Financing
The extension language mirrors HB4437, a standalone measure filed in January by Representative Kam Buckner. That bill stalled in the House Rules committee since 27 March and did not advance before the legislative session adjourned. Bally’s previously stated that the extension maintains compliance with its Host Community Agreement with the City of Chicago while preserving guest services, staff employment, and local economic activity. Representative Buckner noted that the project timeline faced uncertainty and that skepticism regarding the September deadline was justified. Gaming and Leisure Properties supports the development with $940 million in construction financing and a $250 million real estate acquisition.The initial license extension was granted in 2023 to accommodate construction delays. Both Bally’s and the Illinois Gaming Board confirmed the passage of the new extension measure without providing additional details.