No vote on allowing smoking at casinos

SPRINGFIELD — Health activists say they have the votes to snuff out legislation that would allow smoking at Illinois casinos, but they didn’t get a chance to prove it Wednesday.

Sen. Martin Sandoval did not call his bill for a committee vote or explain whether he’s dropping the idea. The Chicago Democrat didn’t immediately return a call seeking comment.

Kathy Drea of the American Lung Association did not declare victory but said she assumes Sandoval knew the bill would fail.

The measure would allow smoking in Illinois casinos if they compete against casinos in neighboring states that also allow smoking.

Smoking bans are seen by critics as a blow to the casino business.