(Nodaway) Republican Senator Tom Shipley of Nodaway, representing Iowa District #9, emphasizes the significance of high school sports in Iowa. He believes the objective should be to encourage maximum attendance at these events. However, he acknowledges that there have been challenges when supporters arrive and find they can’t simply pay cash at the gate.
Shipley says this issue becomes more pronounced during tournament season, as the state athletic associations enforce rules that govern everything from admissions to officiating. To address this concern, Shipley serves on a subcommittee that has successfully passed a bill mandating the acceptance of legal tender for admissions. He points out that not everyone feels comfortable using mobile payment apps, and it’s important for all attendees to feel welcomed and informed when they approach the gate.
Additionally, Senator Shipley raises concerns about the competition between private and public schools, particularly regarding the difference in success rates during tournaments. He mentions that lawmakers have urged athletic associations to examine this situation and devise a more equitable resolution. Although there has been some progress in this area, a definitive solution has yet to be reached.
