After years of stalled progress, Indiana lawmakers are once again turning their attention to online gambling legislation. State Representative Ethan Manning has introduced House Bill (HB) 1432, aiming to regulate online poker and casino-style games while expanding the state’s lottery operations to include online draw and eInstant games.
The bill was assigned to the House Committee on Public Policy on January 21, with discussions scheduled for January 28. Manning, who chairs the committee, has been a strong advocate for gambling-related legislation in the past. He previously backed HB 1053, a bill tied to the Horse Racing Commission, which was amended earlier this month.
HB 1432 outlines comprehensive measures to modernize Indiana’s gaming industry, including provisions for interactive gaming platforms, electronic pull-tab devices, and new tax structures. Licensed casino operators, riverboat owners, and racetrack permit holders would be authorized to conduct online gambling activities, with taxes on adjusted gross receipts ranging from 22% to 30%.
The bill also proposes enhanced consumer protections, such as stricter age and location verification, an expanded voluntary exclusion program, and penalties for misleading advertising by gaming operators.
Additionally, the legislation seeks to establish the Indiana Responsible Gaming and Problem Gambling Services Program, funded by mandatory fees from licensed operators. This program would support initiatives aimed at addressing problem gambling and promoting responsible gaming practices.
Indiana initially explored online gambling legislation in 2023 but paused efforts following a high-profile corruption scandal involving former State Representative Sean Eberhart.
Eberhart was charged with conspiracy to commit honest services fraud after accepting a bribe from Spectacle Gaming. The scheme involved reducing licensing fees for Spectacle in exchange for a lucrative position at the company. Eberhart pleaded guilty in late 2023 and was sentenced to over a year in prison.
The fallout from the scandal forced lawmakers to halt progress on iGaming regulations, leaving Indiana behind other states in developing its online gambling market. However, with HB 1432, the state appears ready to move forward.
In addition to HB 1432, Manning has introduced HB 1433, a bill addressing charity gaming schemes. The two bills will be discussed together, reflecting a broader effort to refine Indiana’s gaming laws.
HB 1432 also includes provisions to regulate advertising practices in the gaming industry. Operators would be prohibited from engaging in false or misleading advertising, a measure aimed at protecting consumers and ensuring transparency. The bill strengthens oversight mechanisms, allowing the Indiana Gaming Commission to enforce strict compliance.
The proposed legislation states the economic benefits of legalizing and regulating online gambling. Tax revenue from interactive gaming is expected to support the state’s horse racing industry and provide funds for cities and counties hosting casinos.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/01/28/93318-indiana-lawmakers-propose-bill-to-regulate-online-gambling-and-expand-gaming-operations
