Iowa Senate President Amy Sinclair found herself at the center of a heated debate surrounding a proposed five-year moratorium on new state-licensed casinos. This contentious issue has sparked a flurry of activity in the Iowa House, where the bill easily passed, but its fate in the Senate remains uncertain.
During a recent appearance on the “Iowa Press” program, Sinclair expressed cautious optimism about the bill’s chances in the Senate. However, she emphasized that the outcome is far from certain, describing it as a “jump ball” with no clear winner in sight. The bill includes a provision that would make the moratorium retroactive to January 1st of the current year, allowing time for deliberation before the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission’s upcoming decision on granting a state license for a casino in Cedar Rapids on February 6.
Despite the urgency of the looming decision, Sinclair noted that there is no need to rush the approval process. The bill, which passed in the House with a 68-31 vote, is set to be reviewed by the Senate State Government Committee in the coming week. Sinclair emphasized that there will be no shortcuts or fast-tracking of the legislative process, as a thorough review is essential.
In a surprising turn of events, the Senate Local Government Committee also passed its own version of a casino moratorium, adding another layer of complexity to the debate. Sinclair revealed that this bill will also be referred to the State Government Committee, allowing for a robust and thoughtful discussion on the matter. She stressed the importance of engaging in a broader “philosophical conversation” about the issue, transcending partisan lines.
“This isn’t a Republican versus Democrat issue,” Sinclair commented during the taping of the “Iowa Press” program. “This is an Iowa issue that requires careful consideration. The fundamental question at hand is whether the current number of casinos in the state is sufficient or if there is a need for more. Should we trust the established boards and commissions to fulfill their duties, or do we need to intervene?”
As the debate unfolds in the Iowa Senate, the fate of the proposed moratorium on new casinos hangs in the balance. With conflicting opinions and competing interests at play, the final decision will have far-reaching implications for the state’s gaming industry and beyond. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story as lawmakers grapple with a complex and divisive issue that has captured the attention of Iowans statewide.
