Iowa House approves casino expansion ban for five years

Iowa lawmakers have received approval from the Iowa House on House File 144, which bans casino expansions till June 30, 2030. Approved by a 68-31 vote, the bill has sparked a debate with a key point of whether a new casino would help or hurt the state’s gaming industry. Particularly, the Cedar Rapids casino is 

Iowa lawmakers have received approval from the Iowa House on House File 144, which bans casino expansions till June 30, 2030.

Approved by a 68-31 vote, the bill has sparked a debate with a key point of whether a new casino would help or hurt the state’s gaming industry. Particularly, the Cedar Rapids casino is under the target of the industry. Critics argue that the new casino project has the potential to hurt existing casinos, while supporters claim it would boost the local economy and promote healthy competition.

Rep. Bobby Kaufmann, the author of the bill, said:

“I think the studies show significant cannibalism is very real. And I do believe we are in the correct purview to tell the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission how they should make major decisions.”

Q Casino CEO Alex Dixon referenced a study suggesting that a new casino could cause significant revenue losses. While he expressed confidence that quality offerings could keep loyal customers, other operators remain uncertain about the market’s stability.

Rep. Sami Scheetz said:

“Let the Racing and Gaming Commission do its job. It shouldn’t be our job to protect existing casino operators in the state.”

If the bill passes before February 6, Cedar Rapids’ casino dreams will be paused for years.