A new proposal in the Illinois House aims to outlaw the use of credit cards for gambling and lottery transactions, marking the latest effort by state lawmakers to tighten betting regulations.
The bill, introduced by Democratic Representatives Curtis Tarver and Marti Deuter of the Chicago area, seeks to amend Illinois’ lottery law and extend financial restrictions on gambling activity. Officially known as House Bill 4149, the measure would prevent casinos from allowing players to use credit cards for wagers and block ATMs on gaming floors from providing credit card cash advances.
The legislation also addresses lottery transactions, explicitly stating that “a person [is prohibited] from selling a lottery ticket or share on a credit basis.” It further outlines that, “No person shall sell a ticket or share at a price greater than that fixed by rule or regulation of the Department. No person other than a licensed lottery sales agent or distributor shall sell or resell lottery tickets or shares. No person shall charge a fee to redeem a winning ticket or share. No person shall sell a lottery ticket or share on a credit basis.”
If enacted, the law would represent a significant shift in how gambling is financed in the state—particularly as credit card-based betting grows in popularity across the U.S.
Broader Context and Neighboring State Comparisons
Illinois’ proposal comes at a time when other states are grappling with similar financial issues related to gambling. Just across the border, Missouri allows casinos to process cash advances via credit card, though these transactions must be handled by a cashier and verified with a valid ID.
Financial analysts note that while most casinos still prohibit direct wagering with credit cards, they often provide ATMs capable of processing both debit and credit transactions for cash withdrawals. As NerdWallet observes, “Brick-and-mortar casinos don’t typically accept credit cards yet — though they’re working on it. They instead offer ATMs that can accept credit and debit cards to dispense cash.”
The move by Illinois lawmakers follows a series of new rules implemented by the Illinois Gaming Board six months ago, which banned credit card use for placing sports bets. Similar restrictions have been adopted in multiple states as regulators attempt to limit problem gambling and reduce player debt.
Rising Cash Advance Rates and Expanding Sports Betting
Data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) underscores the broader national concern behind such initiatives. As online sports betting has surged, cash advance rates on credit cards have risen sharply in several states. In 2023, rates in Kansas and Ohio each topped 1%, while Missouri trailed just under 0.8%.
The CFPB reported in December 2024 that “Sports gambling, particularly through online sports betting platforms, is now legal in 38 states, with nearly $120 billion wagered last year.” Regulators argue that easy access to credit-based funding has worsened debt accumulation among bettors, heightening calls for legislative safeguards.
House Bill 4149 reflects that growing caution, signaling Illinois’ intent to align its gambling oversight with national efforts to protect consumers from risky financial behavior tied to betting.
Source:
“Democrats propose Illinois ban credit cards for gambling, lottery”, thetelegraph.com, October 28, 2025
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