Iowa state lawmakers have "finalized legislation that would legalize sports wagering and placing bets on fantasy sports websites and apps." The bill now heads to Gov. Kim Reynolds, who "has not indicated publicly whether she'll sign it into law." If the governor signs the bill, the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission would "start to develop rules for casinos to implement." IRGC administrator Brian Ohorilko said that the body "would aim for rules to be adopted in July or August." Iowans would be able to wager on sporting events at "any of Iowa's 19 casinos, and online if they visit a casino in person to prove they are at least 21" (DES MOINES REGISTER, 4/23). The state would impose a 6.75% tax on net receipts (OMAHA WORLD-HERALD, 4/23).
Meanwhile, a bill to let Colorado voters decide in November whether to allow sports wagering -- with a 10% state tax -- won approval yesterday from the House Finance Committee on a 9-1 vote. The bill "still has to clear the House Appropriations Committee, two votes on the chamber's floor, then do the same in the Senate" (Colorado Springs GAZETTE, 4/23).
