State legislators propose another casino license moratorium to prevent Cedar Rapids project

Hunter
07/25/24

Iowa lawmakers could issue another moratorium on new casino licenses when they begin the 2025 legislative session, ahead of an expected vote on approval of a new Cedar Rapids gambling facility.

The Gazette reports that casino backers remain undeterred, and focused on the process of obtaining a gaming license from the five-member Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, which is scheduled to decide the fate of a Cedar Rapids casino license February 6th 2025.

A two-year moratorium was passed in 2022 that blocked new licenses; legislators did not extend the pause in this year’s session.

State representative Bobby Kaufmann says he plans to introduce the moratorium again when the 2025 legislation convenes this January.

The Linn County Gaming Association and Peninsula Pacific Entertainment are prepared to jointly apply for a gaming license in the near future. The city and the Cedar Rapids Development Group have agreed to support the process.