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Iowa Groups Prepare for Poker Tournament Ban

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – As reported by the Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier: "Throughout the Cedar Valley, organizations are preparing for the change in state law Friday which will outlaw poker tournaments by hosting final games.

"At the Cedar Falls AMVETS, organizers are mourning the loss of a 2-month-old Texas Hold'em tournament that was wildly successful in attracting business on slow Wednesday nights.

"…The game at the AMVETS hall cost players $20 to join, with all the money paid out to the winners. Money raised from the extra business was earmarked for the Veterans Blind Golf Tournament in Iowa City.

"…The change in the law is actually more of a clarification, state officials say. It does away with a loophole that allowed poker tournaments. The old law, which officials said was too vague, allowed for tournaments, and did not specifically forbid poker tournaments. The new law clarifies that poker cannot be considered a 'bona fide' activity.

"…The new law may also effect the group's other tournaments, such as bowling, golf and a 'pepper' game held every Thursday night. Johns said the organization will check into the legality of each event before continuing…"

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