(Springfield) -- The Illinois Senate is looking at allowing betting on horse races on the internet or over the phone.

The Senate Gaming Committee unanimously approved a plan that would let you place bets by phone, online or at new kiosks at racetracks or off-track betting sites.

Marc Laino with the Illinois Racing Board says the plan could make two-million dollars for the state.

Illinois' currently facing a nine-billion dollar budget deficit.

Senator Ricky Hendon says that if online gambling is already going on, the state should get tax revenue from it.

Many people bet online legally and illegally on horses, sports and poker.

Marc Laino says horse racing officials will put security measures on websites and kiosks to prevent underage gambling.

Opponents say the plan is bad news for gambling addicts.

Anita Bedell with Illinois Church Action on Alcohol and Addiction Problems says online gambling will lead to more people losing money, because people won't have to leave their homes to place bets.

Bedell says that the state should instead raise money by taxing racetracks.

The plan for betting on horses online is one of several ways lawmakers looking to make more money from gambling.

Senate President John Cullerton supports a plan to let people across the country buy Illinois lotto tickets online.

(Copyright 2009 by Newsroom Solutions)