Indiana lawmakers move to allow casino in Allen County
Indiana lawmakers have introduced House Bill 1038, directing the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) to accept applications for a casino licence in Allen County. The proposal names Fort Wayne as the host community and includes the option of relocating the Rising Star Casino from Ohio County. The bill requires a competitive process, allowing operators to submit bids, site plans, and investment details. It sets a minimum licence fee of $50 million, with funds going to the state’s general fund. Fort Wayne’s location near Northern Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio is cited as a factor, and recent local advocacy and revenue studies have renewed legislative interest.
Legislative path ahead
The bill has been sent to the House Committee on Public Policy. Hearings, fiscal notes, amendments, and, if approved, full House and Senate debates will follow. If HB 1038 passes, the Indiana Gaming Commission would manage the application process, review applicants’ finances, compliance records, and community commitments, and recommend licences under statutory rules. The process would include a formal request for applications, submission deadlines, public presentations, and a scoring system based on investment, jobs, local partnerships, and responsible gaming plans.
Rep. Craig Snow (R-Warsaw) authored the HB 1038. Supporters say a competitive process for an Allen County licence would bring private investment, retain spending in-state, and broaden local revenue. Rep. Kyle Miller supports a commercial, state-regulated casino in Fort Wayne instead of a tribal casino, arguing that state-licensed venues generate higher direct tax revenue. Gov. Mike Braun called Fort Wayne a suitable location but noted that Indianapolis, Lake County, and Hamilton County could also be considered.
HB 1038 includes the option of relocating Rising Star Casino from Ohio County to Allen County. Moving the licence north would alter revenue and tax collection. Alongside Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Lake County, and Hamilton County have also been noted by state leaders as possible relocation sites. Relocation would involve major construction, a permanent workforce, and local vendor contracts. Early discussions in Allen County have referenced development with hotel rooms, event space, and food and beverage facilities.
Opposition concerns
Sen. Tyler Johnson, representing eastern Allen and DeKalb counties, said a casino in Allen County poses risks for families, schools, and public safety. The Coalition for a Better Allen County argues the region does not need a casino and warns of increased gambling problems, household instability, and economic harm. As WPTA-21Alive reported, Cathie Humbarger, speaking for the group, pointed to Fort Wayne’s growth without a casino as evidence that prosperity is possible without gaming. Opponents say any revenue plan must include funding for prevention and treatment, self‑exclusion programmes, and transparent data requirements.
Earlier in 2023, Rep. Ethan Manning introduced House Bill 1536, which would have allowed online slots, table games, poker, and digital lottery through smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers, with state casinos and racetracks eligible for licences. The measure did not advance in the 2023 session.
Revenue projections
A Spectrum Gaming Group analysis submitted to the IGC estimates that relocating a licence to Fort Wayne could raise annual revenue from about $41 million to $204 million. The study suggests the state could gain around $61 million more in tax revenue each year if a casino opens near Fort Wayne. The same research indicates Indianapolis could generate higher totals, making site selection both a political and economic decision.
Fort Wayne rejected casino plans in 2009, but since then, the city and county have grown in population, expanded their employer base, and improved infrastructure. Supporters argue the region is now better prepared to host a casino. Airport upgrades, sports venues, and downtown projects are cited as factors that strengthen the case for a casino. Casinos in northern and central Indiana could lose customers if a Fort Wayne site draws regional visitors. Policymakers aim to expand the overall market rather than shift existing spending. A Fort Wayne casino could attract visitors from nearby Ohio and Michigan cities, adding new revenue beyond Indiana.
Subscribe HERE to SiGMA’s Top 10 News countdown and SiGMA’s weekly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest iGaming News from the biggest iGaming community in the world and benefit from subscriber-only offers.
