The Indiana Gaming Commission recently released draft regulations to implement House Enrolled Act 1015, legalizing sports wagering in the state. If the rules are approved at the commission’s August 28 meeting, the state’s five casinos may begin taking in-person bets on September 1, at sportsbook windows or kiosks. Mobile and internet wagering will be allowed at a future date.
Dan Nita, Caesars regional president and Hammond Horseshoe general manager, said, “We’ve been encouraged by the draft regs. Maintaining the integrity of the operation is first and foremost. But each property is a bit unique. So the ability to have some flexibility as to how the sportsbook is laid out and where you place kiosks and what kind of screens you have, I think those are more operational in nature and so we’ve been pleased with that.”
Nita said Horseshoe will start construction on a 5,300 square foot sportsbook on the casino floor at the base of the escalator leading to the Village Square Buffet and the Venue concert hall. He said that location was chosen to maximize foot traffic and make people aware sports betting is available.
The sportsbook at the Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City will be run by FanDuel as part of a nationwide strategic partnership between the fantasy sports operator and Blue Chip owner Boyd Gaming. Sportsbook operators have yet to be announced at Ameristar Casino in East Chicago and the Majestic Star casinos in Gary.
