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Iowa Casino Moratorium Lifted

IOWA – As reported by the Quad-City Times: "The Iowa Racing and Gaming Committee voted to lift a moratorium on issuing new casino licenses Thursday, setting the stage for an expansion of the gambling industry in the state and signaling the start of a high-stakes competition for a limited number of licenses.

"Hundreds of people from the six Iowa counties seeking to bring in a casino to jump-start economic development packed the meeting room, applauding when the issue passed on a 4-1 vote.

"…The commission's action comes after the Iowa Legislature passed a bill this year that would charge fees for new gaming licenses, as well as allowing the state's three racetracks to add table games.

"In 1998, the commission put in place a moratorium on new licenses. But it asked lawmakers last year for direction on whether they should lift that moratorium and grant new licenses.

"…Some representatives of religious groups urged commissioners to keep a lid on the gambling industry in the state, contending that it comes at a high cost to families…"

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