Gambling Legislation

Iowa Bill Would Revise A Moratorium On New Casinos

Iowa Bill Would Revise A Moratorium On New Casinos
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The bill would prevent new casinos from being approved and built in the state

The Iowa legislature is considering a bill to revise a moratorium on new casino developments in the state. Representative Bobby Kaufmann has proposed legislation that would extend the existing restriction, preventing the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) from approving new casino licenses, particularly targeting a proposed casino in Cedar Rapids. The moratorium would remain in place until 2029 if the bill passes.

The proposal reflects concerns from Iowa’s existing casino operators. Alex Dixon, president and CEO of Q Casino, argued that a new casino in Cedar Rapids would negatively affect businesses in Dubuque, Riverside, and Waterloo.

Boyd Gaming, which owns the Diamond Jo Casino, echoed these concerns, citing potential harm to Dubuque and other areas. A state-commissioned feasibility study supported these claims, indicating that a Cedar Rapids casino could disrupt the financial stability of nearby gambling venues.

This debate follows earlier efforts to establish a casino in Cedar Rapids. Attempts in 2014 and 2017 were blocked by the IRGC, which cited concerns about economic impacts on existing casinos. However, Linn County voters approved a measure in 2021 allowing developers to seek a casino license for the county indefinitely.

The proposed $275 million development in Cedar Rapids would feature a casino with 700 slot machines and 22 table games, as well as restaurants, bars, an entertainment venue, a cultural center, and a STEM lab. The IRGC is set to vote on the project on February 6.

Supporters of the moratorium argue it is necessary to protect existing casino operations, while opponents believe it stifles economic opportunities for Cedar Rapids. The outcome of the legislative session will determine the future of casino expansion in Iowa.

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