Indiana lawmakers are discussing House Bill 1038, a proposal that could move an existing casino license from its current location in Ohio County to a more bustling market.
This is all happening in the spirit of finding a better spot for the Rising Star Casino, which hasn't been doing so well in its current location along the Ohio River.
At first, the idea was to move the casino license to Allen County, home to Fort Wayne. But now, thanks to a change in the bill, there are three other counties in the race too: DeKalb, Steuben, and Wayne. This means these areas will now compete to see who might host the new casino spot.
The bill passed its second hearing as “ordered engrossed” on Thursday, meaning it will get a third floor hearing in the House.
A recent study predicted an economic windfall tied to the casino. Indiana may also attempt to legalize online casinos this year.
Why Move the Casino?
The Rising Star Casino is struggling financially.
On the flip side, Northeast Indiana, especially around Fort Wayne, seems like a much better place for a casino. Why? Because there are more people, it's a hot spot for tourists, and it's close to other states like Ohio and Michigan, which means even more potential customers.
Supporters of the bill say that relocating the casino could bring more jobs, boost local economies, and increase tax revenue. That's good news for any area that might become the new casino home. There are also many people who oppose the plan.
How Does the Process Work?
If HB 1038 gets the green light in the House, it will then move to the Indiana Senate. The idea is to open up a formal bidding process where existing casino operators can make their case for why they should get the license. Those who bid must promise a big investment, at least $500 million, and pay a significant fee to the state.
An interesting twist: if anyone other than the current casino owner, Full House Resorts, wins the license, they'll have to pay Full House the market value for the license.
What's Next for This Indiana Casino?
A lot has to happen before the casino gets a new location.
First, HB 1038 has to pass through more discussions in the House and then move to the Senate.
Following any potential amendments, a simply majority would be needed to either approve or deny it. From there, the bill would move to the other side of the Indiana General Assembly and go through the same process in the Senate that it just did in the House.
If everything goes smoothly, relocation applications could open by October 2026, with final decisions made by April 2027.
Local leaders and communities are already gearing up for the possibilities. For instance, Steuben County is pushing for a location near the I-69 and Indiana Toll Road interchange, while Wayne County is also investing in efforts to win the bid.
All things considered, House Bill 1038 could be a game-changer for Northeast Indiana. It’s a story about location, competition, and the potential for growth. Keep an eye on the developments, as the decision could bring a wave of new opportunities to the area.
