Online gambling expansion clears first hurdle in Indiana
Legal lottery and casino games could becoming to smartphones as soon as September in Indiana.
A proposal authorizing interactive gambling kadvanced Tuesday through the House Public Policy Committee on a 9-2 vote, following more than three hours of discussion.
“What is the future of gaming policy in Indiana?” Author Rep. Ethan Manning, R-Logansport, asked, while introducing his legislation. “How can we leverage the assets we already have, take advantage of new opportunities, benefit the most people and also, at the same time, protect some of our most vulnerable?”
Manning estimated that the digital lottery and casino games, coupled with sports wagering tax hikes, could bring the state of Indiana more than $300 million annually in new revenue. An official estimate, via an updated fiscal analysis, is on its way after the committee agreed to five substantial amendments.
Casino advocates largely supported House Bill 1432.
Multiple people testified that Hoosiers can already access casino games online.
John Pappas, representing the iDevelopment and Economic Association, said illegal operators are hawking their online games as legal and even using the state of Indiana’s seal on advertisements.
“These (illegal) casinos have no oversight, no consumer protections, and zero revenue for the state. Today, you have the opportunity to correct that,” said Brandt Iden, the government affairs director for Fanatics, a gaming company. He also represented the Sports Betting Alliance, which includes his company, DraftKings, FanDuel and BetMGM.
Responsible gaming advocates, however, said Indiana could enforce its laws and drive out illegal online casinos without also legalizing such gambling.
The legislation would tax iGaming licensees at 26% until July 2026. Then, it would impose graduated rates ranging from 22%-30%, depending on the licensee’s income. Only casinos and horse tracks would be eligible to get the licenses.