Operator News
US – Illinois shuts its casinos to protect against COVID-19
By Phil - 15 March 2020
The Illinois Gaming Board has told the State’s 10 casinos that their facilities must suspend gambling operations for 14 days beginning Monday March 16,
2020 as a precautionary measure against the ongoing spread of COVID-19.
Marcus Frutcher, Administrator for the board, said: “For The public health of patrons, casino employees, IGB staff, and others is of paramount importance. The Board is continuously monitoring developments and will update licensees and the public as frequently as possible.
Jay Snowden, President and CEO of Penn National Gaming, said: “The health and well-being of our guests and team members will always be our paramount concern. Since the coronavirus threat began there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at any Penn National casino, and we have implemented stringent CDC-recommended protocols throughout our enterprise, including increased daily cleaning regimens at our facilities, maximizing air circulation, cancelling or postponing all concerts and live events, and we’re in the process of temporarily closing down buffets, among other initiatives.
“As for our 1,200 team members at Hollywood Casino – Aurora, Hollywood Casino – Joliet and Hollywood Casino Alton, who will be impacted by this temporary closure, we plan to continue to pay their full wages and benefits for the 14 day period. This is a challenging time for all of us, and we are very appreciative of the overwhelming support and understanding from our guests and team members. We look forward to reopening our doors just as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will be taking the opportunity to continue our deep cleaning efforts and preparing our casinos to welcome our loyal customers back,” concluded Mr. Snowden.
