INDIANAPOLIS, IN (WTVB) – The Indiana Senate narrowly approved House Bill 1038 on Tuesday in a 26-22 vote, clearing the way for a new casino in northeast Indiana.
The legislation authorizes a 14th state casino license, allowing Allen, DeKalb, and Steuben counties to compete for a project that requires a minimum $500 million investment in a “destination development” featuring gaming, dining, and a hotel.
Proponents, including bill sponsor Sen. Justin Busch (R-Fort Wayne), emphasized the potential for $330 million in annual revenue and the creation of thousands of jobs, arguing the development would capture millions of dollars currently leaving the state for Michigan and Ohio casinos.
Despite the economic promises, the bill faced fierce opposition from several senators who condemned the removal of a local referendum requirement, a provision typically standard for Indiana casino approvals.
Critics, including Sen. Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne), argued that bypassing voters denies residents a voice on a project that could impact local crime rates and property values.
The bill now returns to the Indiana House of Representatives for a concurrence vote, as the Senate’s version notably removed Wayne County from consideration and opted to keep the underperforming Rising Star Casino in place rather than relocating its license.
Steuben County has proposed a casino location near the I-69 and Indiana Toll Road interchange .
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