Iowa Rep. Bobby Kaufmann Has No Plans for New Online Casino Bill
Iowa State Representative Bobby Kaufmann, who is well known for his support of iGaming in the state, has announced that he doesn’t intend to introduce a new online casino bill at this time.
Rep. Kaufmann says he has no plans for new online casino bill in Iowa.
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Despite this, Kaufmann said he would support future iGaming initiatives if another lawmaker decides to champion the cause. Kaufmann previously introduced HSB 227, a bill designed to legalize online casino gaming in Iowa. Unfortunately, the bill stalled in committee, which ended hopes for its passage during that session.
In a recent interview, Kaufmann expressed doubts about his suitability to lead future iGaming legislation. Since he no longer serves as the State Government Committee chairman, he believes it’s not his place to introduce gambling study bills. Furthermore, he said that while he could sponsor a measure on his own, it wouldn’t carry the same weight as a study bill.
Study bills are given priority by going directly to the committee, bypassing the initial stages in the House or Senate. This fast-tracks the process and increases the chances of the bill moving forward. In contrast, standard bills face the risk of never even reaching a committee after being filed.
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Kaufmann’s Continued Support for iGaming in Iowa
Currently, Kaufmann chairs the House Ways and Means Committee, which could be a future pathway for iGaming bills. He reaffirmed his commitment in his interview, saying: “I can tell you if iGaming makes it to Ways and Means, I will be supportive.”
The slow progress of iGaming legislation in Iowa has been partly attributed to the focus on land-based casinos. The state recently ended a two-year moratorium on new casinos, and there has been renewed interest in Cedar Rapids, Iowa’s second-largest city.
Plans are already in motion with the Linn County Gaming Association and Peninsula Pacific Entertainment collaborating on a $250 million casino project in the city.
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