(Spencer)– Gambling was a major topic of discussion at Saturday’s Eggs and Issues Legislative forum in Spencer.
Arnolds Park attorney Rich Meyers expressed concern over Senate File 199 which would expand gambling in Iowa. Meyers is concerned the bill, which calls for adding three gambling boats in the state, is unfairly targeting the Iowa Great Lakes Area. Recent rumors that the Iowa Great Lakes is being targeted are running wild. And atleast one resident says such a proposal may have some merit. Toby Shine, a lakes area businessman, is encouraging the public to carefully weigh the pro’s and cons.
Meyers and others, however, are concerned such an operation would have a detrimental effect on the area. They cite concerns over an increase in crime and environmental issues.
State Representative Greg Stevens of Milford told the crowd at Saturday’s event he’s been hearing a lot from people on both sides of the issue. Stevens says a main concern of his is that the proposed bill would take the vote away from the people. Stevens feels the final draft would have to include the vote of the county in question.
State Senator David Johnson expects the gambling debate will be “live” until the legislature adjourns for the summer.
Stevens added the bill has to get out of committee in the next two weeks, and he isn’t sure “they’ll go there”.
One thing lawmakers are waiting on is a ruling from the U-S Supreme Court. The state is challenging an Iowa Supreme Court Ruling that said it can’t tax riverboat casinos at a higher rate than land-based ones. A ruling isn’t expected until sometime this summer.
(From Danielle Hitchings of sister station KDWD Hot 100 in Spencer)
