Gaming board chief wants Quinn to veto expansion

The Illinois Gaming Board chief says Gov. Pat Quinn should veto a bill that would allow a major expansion of gambling in the state.

Gaming board chairman Aaron Jaffe said Wednesday that he would be “flabbergasted” if Quinn signs the bill.

Jaffe calls the bill “garbage” and says it’s full of regulatory loopholes.

The bill passed by lawmakers would add five new casinos in the state, including one in Chicago. It also would allow slot machines at racetracks and at Chicago’s airports.

Quinn won’t say what action he’ll take on the bill once lawmakers send it to him.

Fearing Quinn’s veto, Senate President John Cullerton put a legislative “hold” on the bill until lawmakers see whether they can negotiate some kind of compromise that won’t doom it.