Iowa gambling regulators signal they won't consider new casino licenses for 3 years

The commission that oversees casino licenses in Iowa says it will not consider new projects for the next few years it but stopped short of imposing a formal moratorium.

Commission Chairman Jeff Lamberti says he's not interested in new proposals for the remaining three years of his term on the commission. The other four commissioners agreed.

He says he wants to see how casinos opening in Sioux City, Jefferson and Davenport in the next few years operate before considering anything new.

Commissioners could change their minds if significant market changes occur or the Legislature revises gambling laws.

The commission approved a new casino for Jefferson in June, the state's 19th state-regulated casino. Iowa also has three operated by American Indian tribes.

Recent studies indicate Iowa's casino market is saturated.