INDIANAPOLIS, IN (WTVB) – Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed House Bill 1038, authorizing a potential $500 million resort-style casino in northeast Indiana.
The legislation, which cleared the General Assembly in the final days of the session, requires a binding public referendum in Steuben, DeKalb and Allen counties during the November 2026 general election.
Governor Braun emphasized that the inclusion of local voter approval was a deciding factor in his signature, stating he would have vetoed the bill had the referendum requirement been removed.
The bill establishes a competitive national bidding process overseen by the Indiana Gaming Commission .
Only in counties where a majority of voters approve the ballot question “Shall inland casino gambling be permitted in (County Name)?” can the commission consider an application for a gaming license.
Proponents argue the project will drive generational economic growth and tourism, while the winning bidder will be required to invest at least $500 million and pay a $150 million state fee.
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