State-Owned Casino Proposed

Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar (R), floated the idea of a state-owned riverboat casino, with profits earmarked to help the state's ailing horseracing industry. Democrats said they were open to the concept, but would want the casino in Chicago, where state law currently bans their operation. The governor suggested the state could acquire the riverboat license held by the Silver Eagle casino, in East Dubuque, which shut down in July 1997. However, ownership of that license - one of 10 authorized by the Illinois General Assembly - remains in dispute, and Illinois Gaming Board administrator Michael Belletire said he doesn't know when the issue will be settled.