The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) has unanimously agreed to review a petition challenging Cedar Rapids' casino eligibility. The petition, filed by Riverside Casino and Golf Resort, questions the validity of a 2021 Linn County gambling referendum.

Riverside's legal challenge centers on the language of the 2021 referendum, which passed with 55% voter approval. The petition argues that the ballot question, which asked if "operation of gambling games with no wager or loss limits may continue," only extended previous gaming provisions rather than authorizing new gambling operations.

The IRGC will establish a review schedule where both parties can present their cases. Cedar Rapids Development Group, Linn County Gaming Association, and Peninsula Pacific Entertainment will defend their $275 million Cedar Crossing Casino proposal, while Riverside will argue its position against it.

Key developments:

• The IRGC rejected a request to pause consideration of the Cedar Crossing Casino project
• A final vote on the casino license is scheduled for February 6
• State lawmakers have 16 session days to potentially implement a new casino moratorium
• Governor Kim Reynolds remains neutral on the Cedar Rapids casino issue

Iowa's unique gaming laws require:

• County voter approval through referendum for casino operations
• No limit on state-issued casino licenses
• Minimum 3% of gross gaming revenue must go to charity
• Cedar Crossing developers have pledged 8% to charitable causes

The outcome of this review could significantly impact Iowa's gaming landscape and determine whether Cedar Rapids, the state's second-largest city, will finally get its long-sought casino.

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