Despite House support, the Iowa Senate will not consider a 5-year pause on gaming licenses. State regulators may consider Cedar Rapids' casino bid.

In a move that surprised Cedar Rapids city officials and business leaders, Iowa lawmakers will not block a proposal for a casino in town. Just last week members of the Iowa House voted in favor of a five-year moratorium on new casino licenses granted by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.

Senators in the Iowa Legislature were told to keep their schedule clear Wednesday evening in anticipation of potential floor debate on a casino moratorium bill. Meanwhile, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission is scheduled to vote Thursday on whether to grant a license for a planned $275 million casino and entertainment center near downtown Cedar Rapids.