Iowa Senate Bill SF613

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/25
• Refer: 3/20/25

Caption

A bill for an act concerning the regulation and support of leisure activities, including by providing for gambling enforcement, license fees, tax rates, and the use of associated revenue, establishing the Iowa major events and tourism program and fund, modifying the sports tourism marketing and infrastructure program, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SSB 1157; See SF 625.)

Impact

The enactment of SF613 would have notable implications for the state's gambling framework by standardizing rates and appropriations which can bolster the state's public safety initiatives through dedicated funding. By reallocating funds previously managed under varied tax and fee structures, the bill aims to streamline financial resources towards tourism and event promotion, thereby enhancing economic development within the state. This realignment may attract larger events, potentially driving significant visitor engagement and revenue generation from tourism-related activities.

Summary

Senate File 613 (SF613) focuses on the regulation and support of leisure activities, specifically addressing gambling enforcement, license fees, tax rates, and the allocation of associated revenue. The bill proposes an increase in the tax rate imposed on sports wagering net receipts from 6.75% to 9%, with funds from this taxation directed to a newly established Iowa major events and tourism fund. Additionally, the bill includes financial appropriations of $8 million annually from the sports wagering receipts fund for public safety equipment, which is used by the Department of Public Safety to maintain and replace necessary equipment.

Contention

Despite its economic motivations, SF613 may face opposition from those concerned about the increased tax burden on sports wagering operators, which could translate to higher costs for consumers. Critics might argue that the emphasis on tourism and event sponsorship funding could detract from other essential services or divert resources away from necessary public support programs. Moreover, the modification and repeal of the existing sports tourism marketing program could spark debate on the effectiveness and future of other funding mechanisms for sports initiatives across Iowa.