Iowa Shares Casino Burden with Underage Patrons

The state of Iowa has decided that any underage perpetrator caught gambling should be held at least pertially responsible, so a potential fine was created to coincide with the large fine already looming over casinos.

Until this week, underage players caught gambling at Iowa casinos faced only being escorted out, while the casino stood to lose thousands. But now, a new state law puts a little of the responsibility on the minor, slapping any who try to gamble with a fine.

The new fine only amounts to $500, but that should be sufficient to deter sneaks who try to play before they are legally eligible, state lawmakers hope. Without the fine, some troublemakers could try repeatedly to enter the gaming floor, with the casino facing a fine as high as $20,000 for allowing participation by a minor.

Security personnel say they'll use discretion on whether to turn apprehended minors over to law enforcement to pay the fine. They note that some honest mistakes occur, as the gambling age in nearby Minnesota is 18, while Iowa enforces a 21 limit.

Wes Ehrecke, head of the Iowa Gaming Commission, praised the decision and noted that casinos are working hard to keep out underage gamblers.

"This will will provide a much needed, stronger deterrent to underage individuals who are trying to illegally enter a casino," Ehrecke told the Iowa Hawkeye.

Iowa casinos put up notices around their premises to remind the public of the new fine..