(Indianapolis) — Indiana lawmakers are preparing to debate what could become the state’s largest gambling expansion in years, with proposals this session focused on online lottery sales and a possible new casino in northeastern Indiana — moves that could also have implications for existing casinos, including Rising Star Casino in Rising Sun.
One proposal heading to the Statehouse would allow the Hoosier Lottery to sell tickets online and through mobile apps. Supporters say the change would modernize lottery sales and potentially generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new revenue over time, while keeping Indiana competitive with other states that already offer online lottery options.
If approved, online lottery sales would not begin immediately. State officials have indicated that significant lead time would be required to build systems that verify a player’s age and ensure purchases are made within Indiana.
At the same time, lawmakers are advancing discussions around casino expansion, including legislation that would authorize a new casino opportunity in northeastern Indiana, centered on the Fort Wayne area in Allen County. Proponents argue a casino there could create construction and permanent jobs, attract tourism and generate tens of millions of dollars annually in gaming tax revenue.
Opposition has emerged from local groups concerned about the social impacts of expanded gambling and whether a new casino would simply shift business away from existing properties rather than create new economic activity.
Those concerns extend to parts of southeastern Indiana, including Rising Star Casino Resort in Rising Sun, one of the state’s riverboat casinos located along the Ohio River. The casino has faced revenue challenges in recent years amid increased competition across the region.
In prior legislative sessions, Rising Star’s operator sought permission to relocate the casino’s gaming license to a more populous market in northeastern Indiana. That proposal did not advance, and lawmakers instead commissioned a statewide study to examine where casino gambling might be most viable without harming existing communities.
Some lawmakers now argue that adding a new casino license — rather than moving an existing one — could allow Indiana to grow gaming revenue without weakening casinos already operating in smaller markets. Others remain cautious, saying the state should weigh economic benefits against potential long-term consequences.
Together, the proposals signal a pivotal moment for Indiana’s gambling landscape. As lawmakers weigh online lottery sales, casino expansion and the future of riverboat gaming, communities across the state — from Fort Wayne to Rising Sun — are watching closely to see how the decisions will shape local economies and state revenue in the years ahead.
