The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has rolled out new advertising regulations for casinos, sportsbooks, and video gaming operators, effective August 1. The most notable change: a full ban on gambling ads on college campuses and university-affiliated media or venues.
IGB Administrator Marcus Fruchter said the updates aim to strengthen responsible gambling standards and ensure ethical, transparent marketing across the industry. He also stated, “By adopting these measures, the IGB is building upon existing regulations to implement additional safeguards and standards that further protect the public and encourage responsible gambling habits.”
Other changes include:
- Prohibiting depictions of college students or university settings in ads
- Requiring easy opt-out options for marketing communications
- Banning third-party marketing firms from promoting on behalf of licensees
These updates build on a 2024 rule that banned terms like “risk-free” and “free bet.” Meanwhile, federal lawmakers are pushing the SAFE Bet Act, which would restrict sports betting ads nationwide between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. and during live games, while outlawing promotional language like “bonus” and “odds boost.”
While much of the rhetoric in the new advertising regulations is geared towards sports betting, the same goes for casinos and poker sites licensed by the state.
Gambling Options in Illinois
There are a wide range of Illinois gambling options, including legal retail casinos, video gaming terminals, and online sports betting through state-licensed platforms.
However, online casino gaming and poker are not yet regulated by the state. To access real-money slots, table games, and poker online, many Illinois residents turn to offshore casinos, which legally accept US players and offer a wider range of games and bonuses.
Can I Trust An Offshore Casino?
You can trust a reputable offshore casino if it holds a valid gaming license from recognized international regulators like Curacao, Panama, or the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. These authorities require casinos to meet international standards for fair play, secure online transactions, and deploy responsible gambling practices.
Trusted online casinos for US players also use certified random number generators (RNGs), offer dispute resolution processes, and maintain transparent operations. While not under US jurisdiction, many of these sites still follow strict protocols to protect players and ensure a safe gaming experience.