In the state of Iowa, gambling has been legalized and expanding since the ratification of a constitutional amendment in 1972.[1] Before then, the constitution prohibited the gambling within the state. As of 2018, gambling is Iowa's largest tourist attraction, making $1.476 billion per year.[2]
History
editIn the 1846 Iowa Constitution, there was a provision stating that the state may not sanction lotteries or lottery tickets. Lottery was defined as any sort of gambling game.[3] In the 19th century, casinos on riverboats were common. This was because Iowa was the first state to legalize riverboats.[2]
On September 7, 1971, a catholic pastor was charged with hosting a gambling house. The church held a Labor Day picnic with one of the main draws being alcohol and gambling, though only the gambling had been charged. The gambling equipment and $600 were seized. Governor Robert D. Ray announced on September 9 that he intended to remove the constitutional ban on gambling.[1]
Gambling was legalized after an election in November 1972. The amendment in question received 68% of the vote.[1]
Two years after gambling became legal, several limitations came into effect. A ban on craps, blackjack, and other games along with bookmaking offices came into effect.[4]
Greyhound racing
editIowa has banned using live bait to train greyhounds for racing.[5]
Online
editOnline sports betting is legal in Iowa. However, online casinos are not.[6]
Iowa Lottery
editThe Iowa Lottery signed into legislation April 18, 1985.[7] As of the fiscal year ending in June 30, 2022, the Iowa Lottery was making $430 million in sales with over $97 million funding state programs.[8]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ a b c Dormann, Todd (September 24, 2021). "Iowa's gambling flood gates opened 50 years ago". The Gazette. Retrieved October 3, 2023.
- ^ a b "The State of Gambling in Iowa and How It Is Influencing the Economy". The Daily Iowan. June 14, 2021. Retrieved October 3, 2023.
- ^ "Legislative Guide to Gambling in Iowa" (PDF). Iowa Legislature. Legislative Services Agency. December 2002. Retrieved October 4, 2023.
- ^ King, Seth S. (June 24, 1975). "Iowa Ending an Era As Gambling Center". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved October 15, 2023.
- ^ Rood, Lee; Clayworth, Jason (July 27, 2020). "The Des Moines Register Subscription Offers, Specials, and Discounts". Des Moines Register. Retrieved January 28, 2024.
- ^ "Iowa Online Casinos & Online Gambling Law in 2023". Gambling.com. October 4, 2023. Retrieved October 4, 2023.
- ^ Rich, Terry (2015). "Iowa Lottery Report On Operations" (PDF). Iowa Legislature. Retrieved October 3, 2023.
- ^ Halawith, Liam (July 17, 2023). "Curious Iowa: Where do Iowa lottery profits go?". The Gazette. Retrieved October 8, 2023.