(Radio Iowa) – State Regulators have hired two companies to conduct a study of the state’s gaming industry that could play a key role in the decision to award a new casino license. Racing and Gaming Administrator, Tina Eick) says the studies are due December 30th, and the two companies will make a presentation to the Commission on their findings at their meeting in January.

The move comes after the Iowa Legislature’s two-year moratorium on new gambling licenses expired. The Linn County Gaming Association has a proposal for a casino on the Cedar River in Cedar Rapids if the I-R-G-C decides to award a new gambling license after reviewing the study and getting other input.