If Allen County isn't interested in hosting a casino in Fort Wayne, there are now several other locations to consider.
The House Public Policy Committee recently made significant changes to House Bill 1038, which now expands the list of possible locations for a new casino.
Originally, House Bill 1038 focused on creating a new casino license specifically for Allen County, home to the city of Fort Wayne. However, the recent amendments have added DeKalb, Steuben, and Wayne counties as potential locations for the project.
Introduced by Representative Craig Snow, this bill aims not only to bring a new casino to the Hoosier State but also to impact several communities across Indiana.
It is also expected to have a big impact on the local economy.
New Potential Locations for Fort Wayne Casino Development
The counties added are located in northeastern and eastern Indiana, areas known for their tourism and easy highway access.
This change means that these counties, along with the sought-after Fort Wayne casino, now have a chance to compete for what might become a relocated casino license, potentially from Rising Star Casino in southern Indiana.
The aim of this bill is not just to establish a vibrant entertainment venue.
By introducing a Fort Wayne casino, proponents believe it could redirect gambling dollars currently spent in neighboring states like Ohio and Michigan back to Indiana.
This could lead to increased tourism, investments, and much-needed tax revenue for the state without severely impacting existing casinos.
Lawmakers are also considering legalizing online casinos and potentially banning sweepstakes casinos in 2026. Discussions are underway to bring a casino to downtown Indianapolis as well.
Economic Impact of a New Indiana Casino
To secure the casino license, interested operators must commit at least $500 million in project investment within five years of opening the Fort Wayne casino or any of the other potential sites.
The Indiana Gaming Commission will be responsible for selecting the operator by April 2027, and local leaders must approve the specific sites within their counties. Interestingly, no voter referendum is required for these developments to move forward.
This expansion likely addresses advocacy from local leaders who see the potential for economic growth, especially with a Fort Wayne casino.
For instance, officials in Steuben County have been vocal about their interest due to the area's tourism appeal. However, there is competition, as Senate Bill 70 proposes relocating the Rising Star Casino specifically to Allen County, which could become the location for the long-desired Fort Wayne casino.
HB 1038's broader scope provides more opportunities and intensifies the competition among counties.
Next Steps for the Fort Wayne Casino
Before the Fort Wayne casino or any new casino can become a reality, the bill still needs to pass through the full House and Senate and receive the governor's signature to become law. While supporters highlight its potential economic benefits, critics might raise concerns about the impact on existing casinos or social issues related to gambling.
If the bill passes, northeast or eastern Indiana, possibly with a Fort Wayne casino, could witness the development of a major new casino by the late 2020s, bringing jobs, visitors, and a boost to local economies.
It is an ambitious plan that lawmakers will continue to debate.
