Illinois Governor has lifted the ban imposed on the mobile registration for new online betting accounts. On Tuesday, Governor JB Pritzker had relaxed the requirement for the new betting customers to register in person at the betting sit’s land-based casino or race track partner, confirmed Jeremy Kudon.
This was an expected move after Illinois Gaming Board issued fresh restrictions on land-based gambling venues where the COVID19 cases are on the rise. Due to the restrictions, the window time for opening the land-based venues was cut down and the capacity was also reduced by 25%. The new bettor registration became extremely difficult after the decision.
Previously, the online betting operators like DraftKings, who already had the go-ahead to commence wagering in the state, said that customers need to go to the far-flung area to register for new betting accounts. The upcoming NFL season made things even more desperate for online betting operators. They have met local state representatives and senators to demand the reinstatement of the mobile registration.
However, interestingly, the latest order of the governor for the mobile registration would only be valid till September 19. However, if there is no improvement in the COVID19 situation, the timeline can be extended.
Pritzker interestingly did not renew the in-person registration exemption last month, confusing many industrialists and experts. Considering the pandemic and outbreak, it would have been a natural decision. However, it is understood that it had to be lobbied hard to got the exemption if the reports are true.
Fan Duel is preparing to launch in Illinois through the partnership with Boyd Gaming. The Par-A-Dice Casino in East Peoria is also getting launched. PointsBet also received the license at Illinois with the partnership of Hawthorne Racecourse. They might speed up the activity to launch and acquire as many customers as they can before September 19 or before Pritzker changes his mind again.