The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission has recently made a decision to conduct studies on the state’s gambling industry, which could potentially lead to the issuance of a new casino license for Cedar Rapids. This move comes after the state legislature allowed a two-year moratorium on new gambling licenses to expire, signaling a potential shift in the state’s approach to gambling ventures. However, the expiration of the moratorium does not automatically guarantee the approval of new licenses – the findings of the studies will play a crucial role in shaping future decisions.
The Commission has selected The Innovation Group and Marquette Advisors to conduct these studies, both of which are well-known and respected in the industry. Racing and Gaming Administrator Tina Eick expressed her approval of the chosen companies, highlighting their previous experience in conducting studies in Iowa. The companies have committed to delivering their findings to the Commission office by December 30, with presentations on their findings scheduled to take place at a commission meeting in January.
Should the findings of the studies support the issuance of new gambling licenses, the Linn County Gaming Association has already put forth a proposal to establish a casino on the Cedar River. This proposal could potentially pave the way for the expansion of gambling opportunities in the state.
Overall, the decision to conduct these studies marks a significant step in evaluating the current state of Iowa’s gambling industry and exploring potential opportunities for growth and development. The findings of the studies are expected to provide valuable insights that will inform future decisions regarding the issuance of new gambling licenses and the establishment of new gambling ventures in the state.