Chicago City Council to vote on sweepstakes machine ban as bar owners warn of business closures

June 16, 2026 - 10:13

The Chicago City Council is set to vote on a proposed ban of electronic sweepstakes machines, a move that has split local alders and sparked fierce opposition from bar and tavern owners who say the ban would devastate their businesses. The machines, which resemble slot games and are often found in corner bars, laundromats, and convenience stores, have become a major revenue source for many small establishments struggling to recover from pandemic-era losses.

Supporters of the ban argue the machines are unregulated gambling devices that prey on vulnerable residents and operate in a legal gray area. Alderman Emma Mitts, a lead sponsor of the ordinance, stated that the devices "create an environment of addiction and crime" and that the city has a responsibility to shut them down. She pointed to reports of increased police calls at locations hosting the machines.

However, bar owners are pushing back hard. Many say the machines bring in hundreds of dollars a week, often covering rent and payroll. Without them, they warn of immediate layoffs and potential permanent closures. "This is not a luxury. This is survival," said one West Side tavern owner who asked not to be named. "If they take these machines, I cannot keep my doors open."

The debate has created a deep divide within the council. Some alders from wards with high concentrations of small businesses are siding with the owners, arguing that the city should focus on regulating the machines rather than banning them outright. Others insist that the social costs outweigh the economic benefits.

A final vote is expected later this month. If passed, the ban would take effect within 90 days, giving businesses a short window to remove the machines or face fines. The outcome remains uncertain, as both sides continue to lobby undecided alders.