Casinos, workers' comp in play at session's finale

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois lawmakers are considering a massive, last-minute gambling expansion and maneuvering over the fate of workers' compensation system.

Higher electric rates and new congressional districts are also on the table Tuesday, which is supposed to be the final day of the spring legislative session.

A flat state budget has already been sent to the governor's desk.

The gambling plan would allow five new casinos and let racetracks add slot machines.

The Senate may vote on abolishing the Illinois workers' compensation system, which critics say drives up business costs. But legislators also could try to resurrect a plan to overhaul the system instead of abolishing it.