ROCKFORD – State Senator Steve Stadelman announced that the Illinois Gaming Board has approved a sportsbook at the Hard Rock Casino in Rockford.
“Sports betting has become more popular in the last couple of years, and this will make the Hard Rock Casino a more attractive entertainment draw for the region,” Stadelman (D-Rockford) said. “Keeping the business in Illinois and in Rockford specifically gives residents the new opportunity to participate in sports betting locally and gives our area more economic opportunities.”
The IGB also granted more than 230 new gaming licenses and related approvals, including the Hard Rock Casino Rockford’s license and a sports wagering management service provider license.
Casino gambling, video gaming and sports wagering generated more than $1.4 billion in tax revenue to the state and local communities in calendar year 2022.
“I am looking forward to seeing more people at the Hard Rock Casino and am excited for the entertainment opportunities coming to Rockford,” Stadelman said. “Millions of dollars in casino revenue goes to local governments and organizations providing services to the community, and this is a win for Rockford.”
The Hard Rock Casino’s sportsbook license was approved on Thursday.
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