The approval of House Bill 1038 allowed the state to expand its retail casino footprint
Indiana is moving forward with plans to award a new casino license, opening a competitive bidding process for developers interested in the state’s northeast region. The move follows the approval of House Bill 1038, which has already been signed into law by the Governor, Mike Braun.
The new law does not increase the number of casinos in the Hoosier State. Instead, it repurposes an unused off-track betting license into a full casino license. Another inactive license has been removed, keeping the overall number of gaming operations unchanged.
Lawmakers shifted their approach during the process. Early proposals focused on relocating an existing casino license from southern Indiana, but concerns about disrupting current operators led to a different plan. Using a dormant license allowed the state to move forward without affecting existing properties.
Three counties are now in the running to host the casino: Allen, DeKalb, and Steuben. Each location offers different advantages, including access to major highways and proximity to neighboring states like Michigan and Ohio, which could help attract visitors.
Fort Wayne, located in Allen County, has been a strong contender from the beginning. Local officials and business groups have pushed for the project, highlighting its potential to boost jobs and regional development.
The bidding process will be managed by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Interested operators must meet strict requirements, including a large upfront fee and a commitment to invest hundreds of millions into the project over time.
Public input will also play a role. Voters in the selected county must approve the casino through a referendum before any development can begin, adding another layer to the decision.
Supporters believe the project could bring new revenue and tourism to the region. Critics, however, continue to raise concerns about social impacts and the effect on existing gaming markets.
