A bill blocking new casino construction in Iowa is expected to be introduced early in the legislative session starting Monday, primarily targeting Cedar Rapids' casino aspirations.

Representative Bobby Kaufmann (R-Wilton) plans to propose legislation similar to last year's measure, which would prevent new casino development until 2029. While the previous bill passed the House, it stalled in the Senate.

The Cedar Rapids Development Group aims to build the $275 million Cedar Crossing Casino on city-owned land, with state gaming regulators set to vote on the license on February 6. Local support is strong, with residents twice voting in favor of casino gaming in Linn County, most recently in 2021.

However, Iowa's existing gaming industry opposes expansion, citing market saturation and potential revenue cannibalization. Studies indicate a Cedar Rapids casino would generate $80 million in new taxes while diverting $68 million from existing casinos in Riverside, Waterloo, and Dubuque.

Rep. Jeff Cooling (D-Cedar Rapids) argues the legislature should respect local consensus, while opposition group Iowans for Common Sense claims two-thirds of state residents oppose casino expansion.

Kaufmann, whose district includes the Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, expects the bill to move through committees by the session's second week. With the regulatory vote approaching in February, timing is crucial for the proposed moratorium.

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