July 01, 2025
Shaw Local
NewsSubscribePrep SportseNewspaperObituariesFriday Night DriveNewsletterStarved Rock CountryEvent CalendarGames and Puzzles

Gambling establishments, casinos in regions moving to Tiers 1 or 2 can reopen Saturday

Regions 1, 2 and 5 expected to move ahead in tiers

By Derek Barichello
Two of five video gaming machines available at The Last Alarm Firehouse Pub. The bar in Amboy has seen many new customers since the machines were installed last spring.

Video gaming machines will be turned on 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, in health regions that advance to Tiers 1 or 2 mitigations. (Kimberly Watley)

Video gaming, along with gambling at casinos, will resume at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, in Illinois health regions that make the move forward from Tier 3 on Friday, according to the Illinois Gaming Board.

Region 1, which includes DeKalb, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside counties; Region 2, which includes La Salle, Bureau, Grundy and Kendall counties; and Region 5, which includes far southern Illinois, are expected to proceed to Tier 2 mitigations beginning Friday.

Video gaming will remain suspended in regions that remain in Tier 3.

In health regions moving to Tiers 1 or 2, gambling will be restricted between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily in both video gaming locations and casinos.

Food and beverage service inside these establishments will remain suspended, while outdoor service, curbside pickup and carryout are permitted. Masks must be worn at all times. Congregating around tables or video gaming terminals is prohibited, and there is a limitation of one person per video gaming terminal.

Casino occupancy is limited to 25% of its fire code capacity.