Indiana Lawmakers Push Bill For First Downtown Indianapolis Casino

Lawmakers in Indiana are advancing plans to create the state’s first downtown casino, a project being proposed with support from local businesses and numerous nonprofit organizations.

Supporters of the proposed downtown Indianapolis casino claim it could generate more than $200million annually for the state while also enhancing the city’s ability to attract sporting events, conventions and other entertainment activities.

This week, Republican Senator Aaron Freeman announced that he has submitted a draft bill that would allow casinos to be built in Indianapolis, which currently does not have a casino. 

Freeman noted that the bill is intended to spark meaningful discussion and cooperation within the General Assembly and to serve as a framework for future development planning.

Senator Greg Taylor, a Democrat from Indianapolis, is among those strongly supporting the proposal. 

“This is proof that we’re putting our emphasis on economic development rather than partisan politics,” Taylor said. 

Proponents of the bill point to an initial report from the Indiana Gaming Commission, which estimates that a downtown Indianapolis casino could generate more than $170m in gaming tax revenue annually.

That estimate represents more than twice the revenue expected if a casino were located elsewhere in the state, reinforcing arguments that downtown Indianapolis would produce the greatest economic return.

Taylor added that the city’s unique characteristics make it an ideal location. Indianapolis is home to a large convention center, professional sports venues, and a dense concentration of hotels, restaurants and entertainment attractions that already draw millions of visitors each year.

Freeman framed the proposal as a fundamental question about gaming policy. “If the goal of our gaming system in Indiana is not revenue, then somebody’s going to have to explain to me what gaming is in Indiana,” he said. 

“If it’s revenue, Indianapolis would obviously generate the most money.”

The proposal has also gained support from Visit Indy, the city’s tourism and convention organization. 

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The group said it supports state and local leaders working together to bring a casino downtown, provided the project aligns with the needs of major convention and event customers and enhances the city’s overall visitor experience.

According to lawmakers backing the bill, the benefits of a downtown casino should extend beyond Indianapolis. 

Supporters emphasize the importance of creating an inclusive plan that ensures all regions of Indiana share in the economic impact.

Following the close of the 2025 legislative session, discussions intensified around the possibility of developing a casino in downtown Indianapolis. 

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City officials believe the sports, events, and entertainment industries have matured enough to support the project and say they will continue working with lawmakers and stakeholders as design and planning efforts progress.

The proposal is expected to face significant debate during the next legislative session, with lawmakers weighing both the economic advantages and potential social and cultural impacts of introducing a casino in downtown Indianapolis.

If approved, a casino located in the heart of downtown would significantly disrupt Indiana’s traditional gaming landscape and could reshape tourism patterns, positioning Indianapolis as a central hub for the state’s travel and entertainment activity.