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Sponsor: Gambling expansion bill being tweaked

SPRINGFIELD — The sponsor of a proposal authorizing new casinos across Illinois says the bill is undergoing various tweaks before fellow lawmakers can vote on it.

The plan is expected to come in committee Tuesday.

Democratic Rep. Robert Rita says the tax rates for new and existing facilities are still being worked out. He says he is also working with Gov. Pat Quinn’s office and stakeholders on the bill’s provision banning campaign contributions from the industry.

He says he plans to call the bill for a vote before Friday, when legislators adjourn for the summer.

The plan calls for casinos in Chicago, Rockford, Danville, Chicago’s south suburbs and Lake County. It’s cleared the Senate and awaits a House vote.

Quinn has rejected two previous plans.

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