Why set gambling restriction at 21?

The greatest problem I find in Iowa's gambling system is the age requirement. The legal age in Iowa is 21. I am 18 years old. At 18, one is allowed to purchase tobacco products, be tried as an adult, go to jail or prison, be drafted into the military and fight and die for the country. But unless you are 21 years old, gambling of any sort is prohibited.

What is the purpose of this restriction? Can you really tell me that I am allowed to kill and be killed in the military before I could try my luck at the casino? Does the government honestly feel that an 18-year-old is responsible enough to serve adult jail time but not enough to put $5 on a sporting event?

Some friends and I traveled to Minnesota a couple of months ago to experience what most Iowans under 21 miss. The casino was harmless and I had a great time.

I'm sure that there are some people who may not be able to handle gambling. But can you say that everyone 21 or older should be allowed and trusted in a casino? In my opinion, the gambling laws in Iowa need a revision.

Zakk Buch

Belle Plaine