No around-the-clock license for Illinois casinos

A group representing Illinois casinos argued that the change would level the playing field after the state legalized 24-hour video gambling at truck stops and added that it would put casinos here in line with those in neighboring states. Opponents contended that nonstop betting would create a dangerous situation for gambling addicts who could end up sitting in front of a casino table or machine for days.

Tom Swoik, executive director of the Illinois Casino Gaming Association, said he was "very disappointed by the board's decision. We think it was an opportunity to keep some money in the state of Illinois, and also we have more restrictions and compliance when it comes to compulsive gamblers and problem gamblers," Swoik said. "We felt like we have a better control of that. There's no control at all at the video poker facilities."

In 1990, Illinois became the second state to legalize riverboat casinos, but it has never allowed 24-hour gambling. While several casinos have asked regulators to extend operating hours in recent years, those requests have been rejected.

As it stands, each casino can set different hours that must be approved by gambling regulators. While operating hours may differ, no casino can stay open for more than 22 hours a day.