The Chicago City Council has passed the city’s 2026 budget plan, which will include a 10.25% tax on gambling revenue and is expected to take effect on January 1, 2026.On...
Illinois gambling ad restrictions to include colleges and universities
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) expanded restrictions on casino, video gaming, and sports betting advertising to include college and university campuses.
The regulations prohibit placing gambling ads on any college or university campus, including ad placement through institutional media such as student newspapers, television, or radio stations.
The updated regulations apply to all licensed operators within the state of Illinois and require them to implement “clear, consistent, ethical, and transparent advertising and marketing guidelines.”
Marcus D. Fruchter, IGB Administrator, said:
“By adopting these measures, the IGB is building upon existing regulations to implement additional safeguards and standards that further protect the public and encourage responsible gambling habits.”
According to official 2023-24 data, there are 249 colleges and universities in Illinois, including 63 public and 186 private institutions. The new rules seek to reduce exposure to gambling content for underage audiences and those at risk of gambling problems.
Operators are now required to retain copies of all advertising and marketing content, provide patrons with the ability to opt out of receiving marketing communications, include responsible gambling messaging in all advertising, and avoid engaging third parties for marketing services if payment is tied to bet volume or outcomes.
The new regulations apply across broadcast, digital, and print media. They also align with the board’s broader approach to unified gambling regulation across all platforms.
State lawmakers have urged Chicago officials to override Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposed 10.25% city tax on online wagers, with concerns that bettors will turn to offshore,...
