CHICAGO (WBBM) – Governor Pat Quinn is shooting for the environmental “green” rather than the “green” that is expected if gambling is expanded in the state.

LISTEN: Newsradio 780′s Mary Frances Bragiel Reports

The goal with expanded gambling is to help close the state’s nearly $15 billion deficit. Governor Quinn continues to balk at the idea.

“I don’t want our state to have a system where we’re Las Vegas in the Midwest,” Quinn said.

The State Senate last week approved legislation that would add 5 new state regulated casinos, including one in Chicago.

Governor Quinn believes, at least at this point, that more jobs would be created through investing in renewable energy and water conservation rather than gambling.

Proponents say at least $1 billion of new revenue could be generated.