Sep 22, 2005 11:11 am US/Central
Court Rejects Challenge To Emerald Casino Law
Ruled There Was No Conflict Of Transfering Casino To Rosemont
SPRINGFIELD (AP) ―
The Illinois Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the constitutionality of a law that was intended to transfer the defunct Emerald Casino to the Chicago suburb of Rosemont.
Opponents criticized the law as unconstitutional special legislation that conflicted with the Illinois Gaming Board's authority to regulate gambling.
But the Supreme Court ruled there was no conflict. The law still let the Gaming Board take disciplinary action against the casino owners if necessary -- a process that is taking place right now, the court pointed out.
The casino opened in East Dubuque, in the northwestern corner of the state, as the Silver Eagle but closed in 1997. In 1999, lawmakers passed legislation letting the owners of the casino license relocate. The Gaming Board was required to approve the move and renew the license, which it had previously refused to do.
The renamed Emerald Casino was meant to open in Rosemont, where its proximity to O'Hare International Airport guaranteed a profitable market. But legal challenges and allegations of wrongdoing and potential mob ties have kept the casino from being built.
(© 2005 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
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