The Governor’s backtrack on legislation means Illinois bettors who want to open an online betting account will have to visit the betting company’s land-based casino or racetrack partner. Rivers Casino Des Plaines is currently the only Illinois-based venue with an online betting app, although others are expected to launch soon.  

Among those operators waiting in the wings is DraftKings, which on Thursday announced plans to rebrand its property at Casino Queen in a deal that would see the sports betting company side-step the State’s 18-month ‘time out’ legislation that prohibits online only operators from using their own brands.  

While DraftKings received its license last week, its partner property Casino Queen remains on hold for its certificate essentially ending the company’s plans to launch its app in the State for now.  

Initial Illinois betting laws required bettors to register in-person, however, following COVID-19 lockdowns, Pritzker temporarily allowed for online sportsbook registrations. However, that temporary order expired Sunday at midnight. 

The Governor’s decision is unsurprisingly expected to negatively impact short-term online betting adoption with online bettors having to travel significant distances should they wish to sign-up with the apps.