To combat community spread of the coronavirus, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds last week activated the state’s public health disaster emergency plan, closing the state’s 19 commercial casinos, as well as bars, restaurants and other businesses until the end of the month at the earliest. The overall health emergency will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m., April 16 unless the governor ends or extends the order.
Reynolds said, “These are unprecedented times and the state of Iowa will do whatever is necessary to address this public health disaster. I have authorized all available state resources, supplies, equipment and materials to combat the spread of Covid-19. The actions taken today are necessary to protect the health and safety of all Iowans and are critical to mitigating the spread of the virus.”
Some casinos voluntarily closed prior to Reynolds’ decree, including Prairie Meadows in Altoona, three Elite Casino Resorts properties and Q Casino in Dubuque. All will pay employees at least through the end of the month.
Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission Administrator Brian Ohorilko said
casinos must continue to staff their security and surveillance forces.
