A legislation has been filed by State Senator Earline S. Rogers (D-Gary), concerning the authorization of Indiana’s ten riverboat casinos, that are currently permanently made fast to the bank, to be moved to nearby land-based sites.
As it was pointed out, the so-called Senate Bill 449 complies with a recommendation from the Indiana General Assembly, which is known to be the state’s Legislature. According to it, land-based gambling venues on the territory of the state should not exceed in number the riverboat ones that were established before July 1, 2014. Thus, the claim that the relocation of the casinos onto land is actually an attempt for the industry to be expanded was in a way rejected.
Senator Rogers’ proposed legislation is to be either approved or turned down by the local Senate Public Policy Committee. It is important to note that it concerns the reduction of casino taxes for promotional play.
It seems, however, that her proposal purposefully omits delicate topics such as the complete elimination or the replacement of admission taxes for gambling venues. The permission of live dealers at the state’s two central horse racing venues is yet another thing that was not discussed in Senator Rogers’ proposed legislation.
She commented on her decision not to mention these issues in her proposal as being a means of avoiding controversies.
One thing is for sure – there will be discussions on Indiana’s gambling industry with or without Rogers’ proposal.
Reportedly, Rep. Tom Dermody (R-LaPorte) completed his own version of a gaming legislation on Monday, January 12.
Mr. Dermody is currently a chairman of the Public Policy Committee, which is a standing committee of the state’s House of Representatives. And his proposal is most likely to be reviewed by this committee. He shared that his legislation concerns the implementation of certain changes in casino taxes. It also seems that Mr. Dermody plans to discuss what lawmakers might consider potential expansion of the industry in Indiana.
Public Policy Committee’s chairman shared with local media that there are many serious issues that need to be discussed and this will certainly be a long process. What is more, the Committee of Ways and Means will also be involved due to the fact that currently, taxes are adjusted.
Gaming revenue in Indiana has dropped significantly in the past few years due to the opening of venues in its neighboring states.
Yet, Republican Gov. Mike Pence has announced that he does not approve of any potential expansion of the industry on the territory of the state.
