The future of horse racing in the Land of Lincoln is in question after the Chicago Bears purchased the Arlington horse racing track.

The purchase leaves just two viable and licensed tracks in Illinois and only one in the Chicagoland area.

The Senate Executive Gaming Committee on Thursday convened to hear from stakeholders like Hawthorne racetrack president Tim Carey so horse racing can continue as it always has in Illinois.

"The business of racing is unlike any other industry that I know of, especially within gaming." Carey said. "But, it is one that, in spite of its long history, continues to change in fundamental ways."

The committee is looking for legislative fixes, such as opening more racetracks throughout Illinois and allowing them to have casino gaming and off track betting licenses.

Hawthorne will take on all horse races in Illinois in 2022 due to Arlington's closure.

https://khqa.com/news/local/gaming-committee-meets-to-discuss-future-of-horseracing-in-illinois