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Rep. Craig Snow has introduced legislation to lay the groundwork for legalizing a casino in Allen County. At the same time, lawmakers have filed a second bill that could more quickly bring gaming to the region — and the newest proposal is already advancing through the state Senate.
If passed, Snow’s bill would require the Indiana Gaming Commission to review applications and proposals from operators seeking to establish a casino in the area. Operators would need to meet strict legal requirements before a license would be issued, including a minimum $50 million licensing fee.
Dual paths — new license or relocation
In addition to Snow’s bill, on Dec. 8, 2025, the Senate Bill 70 (SB 70) was introduced by Sen. Justin Busch (R-Fort Wayne). SB 70 would allow the existing Rising Star Casino — currently licensed to operate in Ohio County — to relocate to Allen County or the city of Fort Wayne, Indiana, should certain conditions be met.
On Dec. 9, 2025, the Indiana Senate Public Policy Committee unanimously approved SB 70, sending it on to the state House for further consideration.
Supporters argue the relocation option could be more practical than creating an entirely new license — and would bring a ready-made casino to northeast Indiana.
Local leaders back Indiana casino in Allen County
Backing for a Fort Wayne/Allen County casino is becoming more public and organized. The mayor of Fort Wayne, Sharon Tucker, and the three-member Allen County Board of Commissioners recently signed a joint letter to state lawmakers supporting casino development in the region.
In the letter, they proposed a revenue-sharing plan: 60% of tax revenue from a prospective casino would be distributed among communities in Allen County, based on population, while 40% would be directed into a “humanitarian fund” to support non-profits that address mental health, homelessness, addiction and related challenges.
Supporters — including local business and economic-development leaders — argue a casino could generate substantial state and local tax revenue without raising income or property taxes, create jobs, attract tourism, and provide financial support for community services.
Supporters also argued the new casino could position Allen County to participate in any future expansion of Indiana online casinos.
Community concerns over social risks of Indiana casino
But not everyone supports the plan. Some residents and local groups remain strongly opposed. During recent hearings, critics warned that a casino would not match what they described as Fort Wayne’s “family-friendly character,” and cautioned about the risks of gambling addiction and social harm if the facility were introduced into what many consider “virgin territory.”
One outspoken opponent, representing a community coalition, argued that large-scale gambling could bring more harm than benefit, and criticized what she described as reliance on “questionable practices” for economic development.
Industry voices have also chimed in. For example, the Casino Association of Indiana warned that creating a new license — as proposed under Snow’s bill — could inject “tremendous uncertainty” into the state’s gaming market.
The future of an Indiana casino in Allen County
With SB 70 advancing and gaining political support locally, the push for a casino in Fort Wayne and Allen County may be more viable than ever. The dual-bill approach means lawmakers could still choose between relocating an existing license or approving a brand-new one — a flexibility that might work in favor of proponents.
That said, social concerns remain significant. The fate of the project may depend not only on legislative action but also on how convincingly supporters address worries about gambling addiction, community impact, and long-term sustainability.
As of now, the issue remains unsettled. But with momentum building in multiple camps, this story warrants close watching.
