A plan to move an Indiana casino has just passed an important step in the law-making process. State House members voted 67-30 for House Bill 1038, which could let the casino in Rising Sun find a new home in one of four counties.
These counties include Allen, DeKalb, and Steuben near Fort Wayne, as well as Wayne County in eastern Indiana. These areas, especially in northeast Indiana, have been identified as promising untapped markets for gaming revenue.
Now, the proposal moves to the Indiana Senate. For it to become law, the Senate needs to approve it by the end of February.
Indiana lawmakers are also considering legalizing online casinos and potentially banning sweepstakes casinos in 2026. On top of all that, there's a chance a casino could be built in downtown Indianapolis as well.
Understanding HB 1038
The goal of HB 1038 is to revitalize Indiana’s gaming industry by permitting the relocation of the casino license. If passed, it would expand the bidding process to include all current Indiana casino operators, not just Rising Star's owner, Full House Resorts.
Winning applicants would be required to commit to a $500 million investment in building a new casino site and related amenities, ultimately driving local economic development.
If the bill receives the Senate's nod, it could pave the way for a modernized casino landscape in Indiana, with competitive bidding and significant new developments anticipated.
Economic Implications and Local Impact
HB 1038 highlights the challenge of balancing statewide economic growth with local community impacts.
The bill stipulates that the winning operator must pay a $50 million relocation fee to the Indiana Gaming Commission and provide $30 million in mitigation funds to benefit Rising Sun and Ohio County. This ensures that the local community is supported despite potential relocations.
Additionally, should the bill pass, the current riverboat casino operations in Rising Sun may continue without interruption until the development of the new inland site is completed.
This strategy offers a path for both continuity and progressive adaptation in Indiana’s gaming sector. But there are some who oppose the idea.
Rising Star Casino: A Storied Past
Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Rising Star Casino has been a distinctive destination for gaming and entertainment since opening as a riverboat casino in 1996.
Owned by Full House Resorts, it offers a blend of gaming excitement and relaxation, featuring around 944 slot machines, 25 table games, hotel accommodations, dining options, and various recreational amenities. Despite these offerings, Rising Star has faced challenges in recent years, primarily due to competition from neighboring states like Ohio and Michigan.
Recent performance reports highlight Rising Star as one of Indiana's lowest-performing casinos, with revenue struggles and market competition prompting discussions around relocating the casino to areas with more potential. This is where HB 1038 comes into the picture.
Looking Forward
The passage of HB 1038 in the House marks a step toward modernizing Indiana's gaming industry.
While the future of Rising Star Casino remains uncertain, this moment represents a potential pivot toward greater economic opportunities and revitalized casino offerings in more lucrative regions.
The focus now shifts to the Indiana Senate. If HB 1038 becomes law, the full implications for Rising Star Casino and the host community of Rising Sun will unfold over the coming years, with relocation and development projects possibly launching by 2027.
In the meantime, those interested should monitor legislative developments and consider visiting Rising Star Casino to enjoy its current riverboat appeal before any changes occur.
