COVID-19
Updates & ResourcesThe Support Main Street Illinois Coalition knows these are incredibly difficult times for our member businesses, and the unknown of when we’ll be able to reopen and how quickly we can all get back to “normal” is one of the most difficult parts. We are here to help.
We are working to promptly address all of your questions and concerns and will post updates on this site as they become available. Should you have any specific questions you would like to see addressed, please submit them via email to info@supportmainstreetil.org and we will work with the Illinois Gaming Board, the Governor’s office, state legislators and other local, state and federal officials to provide you answers and support on these in the coming weeks.
IMPORTANT RESOURCES
Restore Illinois – Illinois’ Re-opening Plan
State of Illinois Workplace Health and Safety Guidance
Helping Small Businesses and Their Workers
Play-It Safe Toolkit: Preparing your establishment for its return to business operations
New Guidelines on PPP Program Permits Size-Eligible Gaming Entities to Participate
We have also researched and provided a number of additional resources which may be accessed below.
We will continue to post this information as it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Gaming License is due for renewal in May. Will I be allowed extra time to update this?
Yes. The Illinois Gaming Board’s March 25, 2020 guidance on annual fees can be found here. Any licensees with specific questions about updates for a renewal should contact the Gaming Board.
Must I maintain my DRAM SHOP INSURANCE while complying with the mandatory closure order?
At the State level, the ILCC has indicated it will not be citing establishments if their Dram Shop Insurance lapses or is suspended. However, it should be advised that this is “at your own risk” and that your local government may have a differing opinion on lapsing or suspending dram shop insurance. We would advise to check with them as well before making any decision of that nature.
Also, your dram shop insurance would need to be active prior to renewing your license with the State.
Can a Terminal Operator provide financial assistance to any Licensed Establishment?
No. Under the Video Gaming Act and Gaming Board Rules, Terminal Operators are not permitted to offer or provide anything of value to any licensed establishment as an incentive or inducement to locate, keep or maintain video gaming terminals (“VGTs”) at any licensed establishment. 230 ILCS 40/25(c); 11 Ill. Admin. Code 1800.250(l).
Can I turn off my games to save power?
No. All VGTs should remain powered on and connected to the central communications system to allow for essential updates and other necessary transmissions. Failure to keep the VGTs powered on and connected to the central communications system will delay the resumption of video gaming.
Can I turn off my internet?
No. All VGTs should remain powered on and connected to the central communications system to allow for essential updates and other necessary transmissions. Failure to keep the VGTs powered on and connected to the central communications system will delay the resumption of video gaming.
In addition, it is recommended that you leave your internet access active to assure the security of your establishment premises and the contents within, including the gaming equipment.
Can I move my machines to clean and paint?
No. The Gaming Board’s requirements for moving VGTs have not changed. Only your terminal operator may submit a request for approval. You must work directly with your terminal operator on this issue.
I would like to replace the flooring in my bar during this down time. Can I move the machines temporary while this work is completed?
No. The Gaming Board’s requirements for moving VGTs have not changed. Only your terminal operator may submit a request for approval. You must work directly with your terminal operator on this issue.
Additional COVID-19 Resources
The Support Main Street Illinois (SMSIL) Coalition maintains a strong presence in Springfield to promote legislation to support the Illinois Video Gaming industry. Our members include Terminal Operators, Manufacturers, Distributors, Suppliers, Owners of Licensed Beverage establishments and others who share an interest in the future of Illinois video gaming.
IS GAMBLING MORE THAN JUST ENTERTAINMENT FOR YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW?
Treatment is available to problem gamblers, family members and concerned others.
Call 800.GAMBLER (426.2537) or text “ILGAMB” to 53342 to initiate a conversation with our helpline clinical staff
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Illinois Video Gaming Industry Businesses
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