SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- Illinois was the first state to sell lottery tickets over the internet. Now Senate President John Cullerton wants Illinois to embrace all kinds of online gambling.
Cullerton says he's introducing legislation to create a "Division of Internet Gaming" within the Illinois Lottery. It would explore creating an online poker site and making Illinois a hub for internet gambling around the world.
The Chicago Democrat said Tuesday it can be done in an "ethical and socially responsible manner" while still generating hundreds of millions of dollars for the state treasury.
Cullerton calls it imperative for Illinois to act quickly so that other states don't get a head start.
In March, Illinois became the first state with online lottery sales.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
