Illinois to End Relationship With Lottery Vendor

Illinois is ending its contract with Northstar Lottery Group, the private vendor that operates the $2 billion-a-year state lottery.

Crain's Chicago Business reports that Gov. Pat Quinn is dumping Northstar seven years earlier than scheduled.

Quinn spokesman Grant Klinzman tells Crain's the governor's office has directed the Illinois Lottery to end its relationship with Northstar. He says the administration had "serious concerns" with Northstar's performance.

The private lottery contractor has never reached the lofty sales promises it used to win a bid four years ago.