A decision on the addition of a casino in Cedar Rapids is slated for this week by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, however legislation in Des Moines may be filed before a decision can be made by the commission. Last week, the Iowa House passed a bill that would enact a five-year moratorium on casino licenses with a vote of 68-31. The bill has a measure that states if the commission does not approve an application for a new casino, then another application cannot be submitted in the same county for eight years from the time of the decision.

A subcommittee in the Senate also approved legislation for a five-year moratorium, and the full Senate can consider it. 

If it passes both chambers, then it may go to the governor for a signature. 

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission is scheduled for a meeting in Altoona on Thursday to consider the application for a casino in Linn County. Public comments may be submitted before the February 6th meeting by sending an email to irgc@iowa.gov.

 

Image from Cedar Rapids Development Group, LLC – 2024 application