Indiana Lawmakers Vote Against Land-Based Casino Gambling

The debate has been going on since the end of last year as to whether or not to allow casinos currently operating on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan to move inland. On Tuesday, Indiana lawmakers answered the question by voting against land-based casinos.

After the vote, which was 57-42 against the legislation, several lawmakers voiced their concern for the future of the casino industry in Indiana. The competition has become increasingly tougher, with new casinos opening in almost every states in the US.

"For two decades, we've enjoyed a relative monopoly in the region," said Representative Matt Bell, "It is important that our policy shift address the policies of a new generation, because the fact is this industry is part of Indiana, and we have a responsibility to talk about the revenue streams that mean so much to our state."

Bell was one of only six Republican that crossed party lines on the vote. The six were joined by thirty-six Democrats, but that was not enough to create a majority. The issue will most likely again be explored in the coming years.

With the increased competition, many states have had to make adjustments to their gambling laws. In the Northeast, expansion is coming in the forms of table games, sports betting, and possibly even Internet gambling.

The Legislative Services Agency, a nonpartisan group, has estimated that competition from neighboring states in the casino industry could cost the state thirty-five percent of their current tax revenue that is being generated. That would equate to approximately $275 million.

February 24, 2010
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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