Iowa Addicted to Gambling $: Zaun Report 3/15

State government’s insatiable hunger to glean more money from citizens reached cleverly into homes across Iowa this week.

The Senate passed a bill to make Iowa one of the first states to approve internet poker -- a revenue enhancer of up to $15 million, according to the nonpartisan legislative services agency. 

Do you think Iowa should legalize internet poker? Take a gamble on a Patch drawing for $100. Every comment this month gives you one entry in the drawing.  

Iowa’s casino industry supported this legislative expansion of their powers. Native American casinos could be expected to follow suit.

Presumably individuals could establish accounts and deposit money with casinos for use in online poker games. Voila! Establish an account, deposit some money, and play online poker from the comfort of your home.

And to think just a few short years ago a few hundred sites hosting Touchplay machines were considered too intrusive by Iowans. Well, this new game may not be so visible, but it will expand gaming from casino sites into private households all in the name of protecting Iowans from an unregulated environment. 

The bill now moves on to the House for consideration. It is doubtful if it will be debated there. However, should the bill become law in the name of protecting the integrity of Iowans; remember to send the cash! State government is hungry, and becoming more and more addicted to gambling revenues. 

What kind of government bets against its own people? 

There are two public forums set in Urbandale with my friend, Rep. Scott Raecker. The forums are sponsored by the great Urbandale Chamber and will take place at 2900 Justin Drive, Suite L. on the following dates: 

Saturday, March 31 - 10:30 am to noon

Saturday, April 28 - 10:30 am to noon 

Please join me when you can. If you cannot attend please email me at brad.zaun@legis.iowa.gov or call 515-281-3371. I am always interested in your opinion and it is truly an honor to serve you!