Illinois seeking new private manager for state’s lottery

CHICAGO (AP) – State officials are officially seeking a new private manager for the Illinois Lottery after moving to terminate Northstar Lottery Group’s contract last year.

Gov. Bruce Rauner announced the release Thursday of a request for proposal on a 10-year $300 million contract. He says proposed contract changes eliminate past problems.

Illinois awarded Chicago-based Northstar a contract in 2010. The company was criticized about its management style and not meeting revenue goals. Under September’s termination agreement, Northstar continues operations until 2017.

Lottery officials say it took months to seek a new manager because of a complex agreement and state law.

Rauner also floated a “public benefit corporation” similar to Georgia and Tennessee’s lotteries. The Republican says he’ll consider that if appropriate bids don’t come in. Any changes require the Democrat-controlled Legislature’s approval.

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