A proposal to relocate one of Indiana’s underperforming casino licenses has stalled in the legislature, but the conversation isn’t over yet. A new bill seeks to commission an independent study to analyze where future gaming establishments should be placed across the state.
Failed Relocation Sparks Fresh Approach
State Sen. Andy Zay, R-Huntington, had initially pushed for Full House Resorts to transfer its gaming license from Rising Sun to Allen County, arguing that a new location could reinvigorate revenue. That proposal, however, never made it past the Senate Public Policy Committee.
Sen. Ron Alting, R-Lafayette, who chairs the committee, opted not to bring the measure to a vote, effectively killing it—at least for this session. Instead of dropping the issue entirely, Zay is pivoting to a broader strategy.
A Study to Rethink Casino Placement
Zay’s latest proposal, Senate Bill 43, calls for a statewide study to examine where casino licenses could be best utilized. The Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) would work with an independent consultant to determine three prime locations for future casino sites.
“It is beyond time that the state strategically looks into the performance and location of our gaming licenses in Indiana,” Zay said in a statement. He believes the findings could help lawmakers make more informed decisions moving forward.
This type of study is often used in legislative processes to lay the groundwork for policy shifts, especially when direct action lacks immediate political backing.
Why Rising Sun’s Casino License Matters
Rising Sun, a small city on Indiana’s southeastern border, has struggled to maintain gaming revenues amid increased competition from neighboring states. Full House Resorts, the company holding the license, has sought a move to a more populous area.
But relocating gaming licenses isn’t a simple process. Indiana’s gaming industry operates under tight regulations, and any shifts require legislative approval. The failure of Zay’s relocation proposal highlights just how complex these decisions can be.
Could a Study Influence Future Casino Expansion?
While the proposed study wouldn’t automatically lead to a license transfer, it could provide lawmakers with a clearer picture of where gaming expansion might make the most sense.
A few potential outcomes could emerge from such an analysis:
- Identification of high-revenue potential areas: The study could spotlight counties or cities where a casino would generate stronger economic benefits.
- Impact on existing casinos: Indiana has multiple casinos already operating—would moving a license harm them?
- Legislative momentum for a future proposal: If the study finds compelling evidence for a move, lawmakers might be more inclined to take action down the road.
What Comes Next?
For now, Senate Bill 43 must clear legislative hurdles before any study takes place. Lawmakers will debate its necessity, potential costs, and implications for Indiana’s gaming industry.
Even if approved, the study’s findings wouldn’t guarantee a license relocation. But they could shape future discussions on how Indiana manages its gaming assets—a topic that likely won’t go away anytime soon.
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