Sometimes state lawmakers come up with an idea that seems so right that you want to shout "Bingo!" That seems to be the case with a bill championed by state Rep. Don Walko, a Democrat from the North Side.

Fellow legislators seem to agree. On Wednesday, they passed House Bill 2204 by a vote of 180 to 18, sending it on to the Senate. The bill seeks to update the state's limits on bingo games.

Under the bill, the maximum payout per day would go from $4,000 to $10,000 and bingos could be held up to four times a week instead of two. In addition, an organization could offer one progressive jackpot that could increase $10,000 a day up to a limit of $50,000. Limits on advertising would be removed and handheld electronic bingo cards could be used.

The changes recommend themselves because bingo attendance has been suffering in the era of slots casino openings. But we should examine the cards before calling "bingo." The casinos are supposed to supply property tax relief. Is it wise to beef up their competition?

We think it is reasonable. Bingo games fund organizations such as volunteer fire companies, and it would be a loss and a shame if they suffered because of the advent of casinos. As a traditional, community-based pastime, bingo should be allowed to better compete on its modest terms with the big guys. HB 2204 is the winning number.