Iowa Internet Poker Bill in TroubleLegislation Needs Reworking According to Lawmakers |
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A bill in the state of Iowa that would legalize and regulate internet poker has failed to gain any traction after a Senate committee approved the proposal in early March, according to the Associated Press.
According to the article published this past Friday, lawmakers couldn’t agree on Senate File 458 in its current form. It will be amended and subject to later review by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
Supporters of the bill argue that it would bring much needed tax revenue to the state, while opponents have concerns about its ability to prevent underage players. According to the Quad-City Times, about 150,000 Iowans play poker online, and regulation could generate $30 million annually in tax revenue.
Iowa is home to slightly more than 3 million residents and about 20 casinos, including Horseshoe Council Bluffs and a Harrah’s Casino and Hotel, also located in Council Bluffs. It is unclear if any partnerships would be forged, should the legislation regain its life and pass.
While legalized internet poker is at a roadblock in Iowa, Nevada is in the process of putting its own online poker legislation through its legislature. Over on the east coast, New Jersey attempted to put such a bill through, but it was vetoed last month by the governor.
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