Illinois Modernizes Its Self-Exclusion Program

Illinois is updating its voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (SEP) in ways that could make it easier for people to take a break from gambling. The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has agreed to three amendments built around a data-driven, research-supported approach, with a focus on reducing barriers and stigma for participants while expanding who and what the program covers.

One of the biggest changes is flexibility in how long someone can self-exclude. Instead of a single rigid option, players would be able to choose a six-month, one-year, three-year, five-year, or indefinite exclusion period. The IGB has framed this as a way to better support individual recovery journeys and personal agency.

Another update would allow remote enrollment, replacing the current requirement to appear in person to join the SEP. The state is also planning a new voluntary Marketing Exclusion List aimed at further limiting the marketing sent to people who have self-excluded. Under the proposal, people on the list can still use gambling promotions if they choose.

The program’s reach is also set to broaden beyond casino gambling and sports wagering to include video gaming. Illinois’ video gaming sector is described as the largest of its kind in the world, and it has not been part of the SEP up to now. As part of the expansion, establishments will implement ticket-in-ticket-out (TITO) technology during play and when redeeming winnings.

Fantasy sports contests are also being pulled into the state’s consumer-protection push. Proposed rules would borrow from existing sports wagering regulations, add enhanced consumer protection measures, fold fantasy sports into the updated SEP, and set a minimum age requirement of 21.

Next, the amendments must go through the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) for public rulemaking before they can take effect. The modernization effort follows Illinois’ July move to introduce Senate Bill 2749, a measure focused on improving education, prevention, and treatment for vulnerable players while raising awareness of gambling-related harms.