Legislators are already taking sides on whether the state needs to add new casinos in 2025
Iowa’s 2025 legislative session promises a heated debate on gambling expansion. Lawmakers are divided on allowing new casinos, with concerns about existing casino revenue and potential benefits sparking disagreement.
Representative Bobby Kaufmann (R-Wilton) is leading the charge against new casinos, citing potential harm to established facilities like Riverside and their employees. He plans to reintroduce legislation to block new casinos.
However, Representative Jeff Cooling (D-Cedar Rapids) strongly opposes further restrictions. Linn County residents twice voted in favor of a new casino, and Cooling argues the competition would benefit the state. He urges the legislature to respect local wishes and allow the existing casino application process to proceed.
This clash reflects a broader division within the legislature. Some members simply oppose gambling, while others worry new casinos would cannibalize existing ones’ revenue. This concern led to a two-year moratorium on new casinos, which expired in July 2024.
With the Iowa gaming commission set to consider casino applications in February 2025, Kaufmann hasn’t ruled out pushing for another moratorium before then. Cooling, however, emphasizes the potential economic benefits of a new casino, including construction jobs, permanent positions, and contributions to local non-profits.
