Illinois adds video gaming, remote enrollment, and marketing limits to its self-exclusion program

The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) is updating the state’s voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (SEP) with longer menu-style exclusion periods, remote sign-up, and a new marketing restriction list. For PSPs and operators, the important part is that Illinois is widening the program beyond casino gambling and sports wagering to cover video gaming and fantasy sports.

1. The IGB says the changes are being built on a data-driven, research-supported approach and still need to go through the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) for public rulemaking. The board used outside researchers and experts to develop the new measures.
2. Under the proposed rules, consumers would be able to choose a six-month, one-year, three-year, five-year, or indefinite exclusion period. That replaces the current rigid setup and gives participants more control over how long they stay out of gambling.
3. The IGB also wants to allow remote enrollment for self-exclusion. Right now, a gambler has to appear in person, which is a practical barrier the board is explicitly trying to remove.
4. A new voluntary Marketing Exclusion List would limit the type of marketing sent to self-excluded individuals. Even so, enrolled individuals would still be able to use gambling promotions if they choose.
5. The program’s scope would expand to include Illinois video gaming, which is currently outside the SEP even though the sector is described as the largest of its kind in the world. Establishments would use ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) technology during play and when redeeming winnings.
6. Fantasy sports would also be folded into the updated program. The new proposed rules would borrow from sports wagering regulations, require enhanced consumer protection measures, and set a minimum age of 21 for fantasy sports operators.

Marcus Fruchter, the IGB administrator, said the board wants the SEP to “continue to evolve,” expand coverage, and better support people in treatment and recovery “without barriers and stigma.” In July, Illinois also introduced Senate Bill 2749, which pushes education, prevention, and treatment measures further up the agenda.