CHICAGO (AP) - Opponents of an expansion of gambling in Illinois are telling the state gaming board that installing 45,000 video gambling machines across the state will cause higher crime rates and higher personal debts.
Chicago Crime Commission spokesman John Pastuovic said Tuesday video gambling has been nicknamed "the crack cocaine of gaming" because of its adverse effects on some communities.
Pastuovic was joined by community and elected leaders in voicing heir opposition to video gambling to the Illinois Gaming Board.
Gov. Pat Quinn signed a bill last month that makes video gambling machines legal outside of casinos.
The Illinois Coin Machine Operators Association and the Illinois licensed Beverage Association support the bill.
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