Sports betting in Illinois is booming! In July, the state’s sportsbooks generated a record-breaking $611 million in handle, according to the Illinois Gaming Board. This marks a dramatic increase from the $312 million in handle generated in June.
The surge in sports betting activity is due in part to the return of professional sports leagues, such as the NBA and MLB, which had been suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. With the return of these leagues, bettors have been able to place wagers on games again.
In addition to the return of professional sports, the state has also seen an increase in online sports betting. Online sportsbooks have become increasingly popular in Illinois, as they allow bettors to place wagers from the comfort of their own homes.
The surge in sports betting activity has been a boon for the state’s economy. The Illinois Gaming Board estimates that the state’s sportsbooks generated $20 million in taxes in July. This money will be used to fund various state programs and services.
The record-breaking handle generated in July is a testament to the popularity of sports betting in Illinois. With more people placing wagers, the state is likely to see even more revenue from sports betting in the coming months. As more states legalize sports betting, it’s clear that this industry is here to stay.