With Illinois in desperate financial shape and a new governor taking office who advocates costly new social spending plans, the state is desperate for new revenue.

So, once again, legislators who traditionally look for easy ways out of vexing problems are looking for an easy way out.

That’s why a dramatic expansion of gambling is on the table again in Illinois.

Among the proposals, according to news reports, are “six new casinos,” legalized sports gambling and increases in the wagering limits on the video-gambling machines that can be found throughout the state.