Iowa Poker Bill Passes Subcommittee Vote

Earlier today, we reported that an Iowa legislative subcommittee was considering Senate Study Bill 3164, a bill that would make online poker legal in the state of Iowa.  According to a tweet from Chris Krafcik, North America Research Director for GamblingCompliance Ltd, there appears to be progress on the bill.

The following was Krafcik’s tweet:

Chris Krafcik   #Iowa racing lobbyist told me that #Internet #poker bill passed subcommittee today. Full committee vote expected later this week.

With this news, it appears that Iowa will begin the process of getting an online poker bill at least voted on by the Iowa legislature.  Iowa is part of the ever-growing list of states currently examining online gambling in some form.  California, Hawaii, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Ohio are among those at least investigating the matter.

There may be a long way to go before this bill even goes to a vote.  According to reports, there is concerns that legalizing online gambling in the state would spread gambling additions to the home.  In addition, others think that the bill may be in for a huge fight as there are a lot of social conservatives in the Iowa House.  Republicans control the House and many think this could be the biggest hurdle in getting the bill passed.

Supporters of the bill include Director of Gaming, Brian Ohorilko.  He says that the bill is about protecting consumers and underaged gamblers.  He stated, “The individuals offering the games for play would go through an extensive licensing process just like any other casino would and therefore the people would know those people offering the games are suitable and of good character.”

At this time a date has not been set on when the bill will go to committee vote. Should the committee pass the bill, then the real battle for online poker in Iowa will begin.  We will continue to update on this story as details are available.