Sen. Bill Cunningham Introduces Measure To Curb Problem Sports Betting

SPRINGFIELD, IL — State Sen. Bill Cunningham (18th) is betting that a new measure introduced in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee will help curb problem gambling. SB 1508 would require sports wagering apps to display a pop-up message directing people to a website with resources for gambling addiction assistance after every 10 wagers made.

“Illinois has been a leader in the regulation of sports betting, and we need to ensure that we are also addressing the potential harms associated with gambling addiction," Cunningham said in a news release, whose district represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest suburbs. "By requiring sports wagering apps to display a pop-up message with resources for gambling addiction assistance, we can help individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling access the help they need.”

The Sports Wagering Act and Illinois Administrative Code currently require a sportsbook to display a statement on its portal, internet website, or computer or mobile application regarding obtaining assistance with gambling problems. However, Senate Bill 1508 goes a step further to ensure that individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling have additional access to resources and support.

The boom in legal sports gambling has many addiction experts concerned. In 2022, Illinois gamblers bet nearly $10 billion and casinos raked in $800 million in revenue from gamblers’ aggregate losses, the Chicago Tribune reported.

The pop-up message would direct individuals to a website with information about the voluntary self-exclusion program established by the Illinois Gaming Board and the Illinois Department of Lottery. The program enables individuals to prohibit themselves from establishing a sports wagering account.

"Problem gambling can have a devastating impact on individuals and their families, and we need to do everything we can to prevent and address it," Cunningham said. "Illinois will continue to be a leader in the modern sports gambling industry, and we need to make sure that those who need help won’t have to ask how to find it.”

Senate Bill 1508 passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and now awaits a vote before the full Senate.