Iowa Gambling Laws
Located in the Midwest with a population of approximately 3.1 million, Iowa is not considered a “hot bed” for gambling. Just the same as many states, there are casinos and racetracks located throughout the state. This gives players the ability to get involved with gambling, without breaking the law and risking punishment.
What is Allowed in Iowa?
There are land based casinos and racetracks offering people the opportunity to gamble in the Hawkeye State. Recently, the state’s lottery CEO made a push to legalize the sale of lottery tickets online. Not only could this soon become legal, but it gives hope that fantasy sports and online gambling could follow suit.
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What’s Not Legal to Play in Iowa?
Online and offline sports betting is not permitted in Iowa. Furthermore, online gambling of any kind is illegal.
A good alternative to sports betting, fantasy sports, and online gambling is horse betting, greyhounds, and land-based casinos.
Fantasy Sports is an Alternative
In 45 states, fantasy sports is an alternative to sports betting and online gambling. Iowa is one of them, allowing potential betters to draft a team and compete in fantasy sports leagues.
Online Poker in Iowa
Despite its opposition to fantasy sports, Iowa is typically on the forefront of new ideas. This appears to be the case with online poker, as the state continues to look for ways to bring this game to its millions of residents.
A recent measure regarding the legalization of online poker will head to the Iowa Senate State Government Committee. If passed, online poker in the state would be regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, just the same as land based casinos.
Land Based Casinos: The Best Alternative
Iowa is behind the times in regards to fantasy sports and online gambling. Both are prohibited, which does not leave residents with many options. Fortunately, there are many casinos and racetracks throughout the state. These are located in many of the biggest cities, as well as some areas that are “out of the way.” Some of the top land-based casinos in the state include:
- Blackbird Bend Casino
- Diamond Jo Casino (two locations)
- Horseshoe Council Bluffs
- Harrah’s Council Bluffs
- Mystique
- Prairie Meadows
- Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
These casinos, among others, provide players with access to slot machines and table games, such as poker, craps, blackjack, and roulette.
There are approximately 25 land based casinos in Iowa.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that the laws on fantasy sports and online gambling are strict in Iowa, there appears to be some flexibility by the state. Residents are looking forward to the day that these laws change, granting them access to legalized fantasy sports and online gambling.
The state already permits land-based casinos to do business, and is looking into expanding lottery sales to the internet. This should help in the near future in terms of legalizing fantasy sports, online poker, and online casinos.
