Illinois Gaming Board Proposes Identity Verification and Self-Exclusion for Video Gambling Machines
Illinois Gaming Board approved rules for ID checks on video gambling credit purchases and self-exclusion coverage for 50,000 machines. Direct cash acceptance ends; verified vouchers or accounts become required. Proposal enters 6-12 month review with public comments; upgrades by LNW Gaming targeted for next year.
SCCG Take — The proposal requires operators to integrate verification systems and account tools, raising compliance costs in distributed venues while advancing uniform responsible gambling standards.
The Illinois Gaming Board unanimously approved proposed rules that would require identity verification before players purchase credits on video gambling terminals. The measures extend the state’s voluntary self-exclusion program to approximately 50,000 machines in bars, petrol stations, and other non-casino locations.
According to Focus Gaming News, the proposal advances to the General Assembly’s Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. That review, which includes a public comment period, typically takes six months to a year.
Under the rules, video gambling machines would no longer accept cash directly. Players must instead buy vouchers at payout terminals using cash or digital payments through a video gaming account. Both options require verification that the customer is not on the self-exclusion list.
Video gaming accounts would remain optional. Operators offering them must provide tools for setting responsible gambling limits, block excluded individuals from opening accounts, and stop sending promotional materials to those on the list. Rewards programs could continue for players who have not self-excluded. The changes would introduce additional payment options and support player controls plus anti-money laundering measures, Illinois Gaming Board Administrator Marcus Fruchter said. The board has designated expansion of self-exclusion coverage a public health priority.
Contracted Technical Upgrades
The Gaming Board has contracted LNW Gaming to carry out upgrades connecting the machines to the self-exclusion database. Fruchter said he was confident the work would be ready for deployment next year.
Administrative Review Timeline
The Joint Committee on Administrative Rules will now examine the proposal. Operators and suppliers must await the outcome of that review and the associated public comment process before any changes take effect.
Reporting: Focus Gaming News
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