Governor Reynolds extends Public Health Emergency Declaration Until Dec. 10
The state’s Public Health Disaster Emergency is now extended until Dec. 10. This requires requirements for bars, restaurants at the 19 IGA commercial casinos to maintain six feet of distancing between groups and ensuring that all customers are seated for eating or drinking.
The Department of Criminal Investigation gaming enforcement division provided additional guidance that also clarifies to the proclamation interpretation regarding alcohol service beyond 10 p.m.
The casinos will need to manage their food and alcohol sales in the same manner as they did under a previous proclamation when bars were closed, but allowed to continue "to go" sales. The bar seating on the casino floor will need to close, however they can continue to sell "to go" orders for consumption on the casino floor until 2 a.m. This interpretation extends to self-service beverage stations on the casino floor as well.
A bar on the gaming floor is considered a “to-go carry out” under the proclamation. People can get served at the bar; but there’s no sitting or playing allowed at the bar top machines. Patrons could also be served by wait staff.
This latest proclamation also extends the governor’s intent established when reopening the casinos in June to recommend reasonable and adequate spacing for patron use of slot machines and the table game positions -- requiring patrons and the dealers to wear masks at table games. Masks must be worn by staff who have direct contact with customers, and customers must wear masks when they are not seated at their table to eat or drink.
The Association and gaming industry worked diligently with the governor, her staff, health agencies, and the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) as our regulator to finalize comprehensive protocol and procedure guidelines. Every property is following essential protocols and procedures to protect the health and safety of its guests, employees, and communities.
It is a privilege for casinos to be a significant employer in their respective regions, and training their staff, who are the backbone of delivering stellar customer service and welcoming back patrons who enjoy the gaming experience.
These commercial casinos are premier entertainment destinations that are a viable part of Iowa’s economy --adding $1 billion annual impact value to the state’s entertainment and tourism sectors. We will continue to follow the advice and guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Iowa Public Health Department, and Governor Reynolds. Thank you for your support of the casinos and cooperation to practice personal responsibility to stop the spread and stay COVID-free.