Iowa panel backs sports betting but congressional action needed before such gambling is legal

Iowa legislative panel backs sports betting

DES MOINE, Iowa — An Iowa Senate subcommittee has unanimously approved a bill legalizing sports betting in Iowa, but even backers conceded they have a long way to go before such gambling is legal in the state.

The measure would allow betting on professional sports at the state’s 17 casinos.

Only four states — Delaware, Nevada, Oregon and Montana — had laws on the books allowing sports betting when Congress approved a ban on sports betting in 1992. Those state were allowed to continue, but others can’t join them unless Congress repeals that ban.

The bill, which was approved Wednesday and faces more committee discussion, is among several gambling proposals being considered by Iowa lawmakers as they look to find money to close a budget shortfall estimated at $400 million or more.