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State of Play
- Indiana is making major strides toward legalizing online lottery sales and gaming, marking the largest gaming expansion effort since sports betting debuted in 2019.
- These moves could significantly impact Indiana players by increasing access to digital betting options and enhancing the overall gaming landscape.
Indiana lawmakers renewed their push to legalize online lottery and online casino gaming with two separate bills in early 2026.
The iLottery bill passed a House committee with a 9-3 vote, aiming to modernize the Hoosier Lottery by allowing digital sales to attract younger players and sustain long-term revenue.
Meanwhile, an amendment to regulate online casinos was introduced in a separate administrative bill, though it awaits further committee votes.
These efforts come amid discussions to add or relocate casino licenses in Indianapolis or Fort Wayne, signaling a broader expansion of the state’s gaming market.
Sweepstakes ban could usher in online casinos
These legislative moves mean more convenient, regulated access to lottery and casino-style games online.
The iLottery modernization seeks to balance online sales with protections for brick-and-mortar retailers, though debates continue over retailer commissions and incentives.
Online gaming legalization could curb underground markets by bringing operators into the regulated space and create a problem-gambling fund to support prevention and treatment. Legislation that would ban sweepstakes casinos was introduced last month, which could open the door to real-money online casinos.
Based on reporting by Kayla Dwyer the Indianapolis Star.
