As sports betting legalization continues to progress in the Iowa Legislature, one local representative is stressing the need to remain transparent on the issue.

District 47 Republican Phil Thompson says a House State Government Sub-committee met recently to allow all interested parties who want to operate sports-betting to advocate for their industry, including: casinos, the Iowa Lottery, grocery stories, and the horseracing industry. As the sub-committee works on a unified bill, Thompson remains steadfast on being transparent throughout the process.

“It’s going to be extremely transparent. Again we’re going to have a big sub-committee, everybody is going to get a chance to speak on it, we’re going to have public hearings on it and I’m obviously seeking feedback on this as well. We’re still trying to keep this as transparent as possible. Make sure that everybody has plenty of opportunity to speak on it.”

However, State Senator Jerry Behn says Senate Study Bill 1168 is looking to create a regulatory framework for responsible gaming for players and supports the integrity of the sport. While Behn has previously said he’s not in favor of gambling, he remains non-committal on legalizing sports betting.

“So I’m just going to kind of stand on the sidelines and watch that proceed. I’m just kind of watching that and just kind of keeping my powder dry and kind of try to decide what’s appropriate and what’s inappropriate.”

To provide Thompson with feedback and your opinions on sports betting, contact him via email at phil.thompson@legis.iowa.gov or Behn at jerry.behn@legis.iowa.gov