Indiana’s move toward legal sports betting is picking up speed with the issuance of 12 temporary sports wagering permits this past Friday.
The provisional permits are being viewed as a test of the system before retail sports wagering has its anticipated official launch on Sept. 1, ahead of the start to the NFL season. Given to a dozen casinos and off-track betting facilities, the “temporary certificates of authority” were awarded late last week and allow the pre-approved facilities to launch brick-and-mortar wagering as the Indiana Gaming Commission decides the final outcome of their full license applications.
Indiana also legalized online/mobile sportsbooks, but those aren’t expected to launch until next year.
Those receiving permits include Ameristar Casino East operated by Penn National Gaming, Boyd Gaming’s Belterra Casino Resort and Blue Chip Casino, plus four Caesars Entertainment properties — Caesars Riverboat Casino, Harrah’s Hoosier Park, Horseshoe Hammond, and Indiana Grand Racing & Casino. Also on the list, French Lick Resort and Hollywood Casino, plus three off-track betting parlors: Harrah’s Hoosier Park Winner’s Circle OTB in Indianapolis and New Haven, and the Indiana Grand OTB in Clarksville.
The state began taking applications for sports betting licenses on July 1.
Regulations being finalized
These approvals follow on the heels of the IGC taking public comment on proposed regulations for sports betting, and casinos beginning the search for ticket writers and supervisors for sportsbooks in anticipation of the launch in early September.
“As we prepare our properties for both sports wagering and live table games, we have opportunities available for dealers, table game supervisors, sportsbook ticket writers, sportsbook supervisors, and even more jobs in various other departments,” Ron Baumann, Indiana Grand’s Senior Vice President and General Manager, said in The Shelbyville News.
The IGC is taking public comment on the proposed regulations through Aug. 1.
Among the proposed rules is the option of creating a digital dead zone at professional or collegiate sports venues hosting competitions if the sporting event’s integrity is compromised. If an event is suspect, the pro league or NCAA can ask the gaming commission to use a geofence to block mobile wagers at that event.
The IGC is expected to adopt the regulations when it meets on Aug. 28.
