New Study Shows Indiana Voters Likely to Oppose iGaming Legalization

Online gambling in the Hoosier State? Don’t count on it just yet.

Indiana legislators took steps toward legalizing online casinos earlier this year, although they did not approve any bills before the legislative session was adjourned. House Bill 1432, sponsored by Rep. Ethan Manning (R-Cass), would’ve allowed local casinos to host up to three iGaming platforms, expanding the existing online gambling market beyond sports betting.

However, a new study revealed that about two-thirds of locals oppose the legalization of online casinos.

Creating a new market?

The survey was conducted by Pantheon Insight for the National Association Against Gaming (NAAiG), who polled 502 registered Indiana voters from Oct. 19-21 regarding their feelings toward online gambling.

According to the findings, 58 percent of voters said they did not support iGaming. That figure increased to 67 percent once the respondents were informed of the economic and psychological impacts of iGaming reported by other states. After being informed of the negative effects, 49 percent said they were “strongly opposed” to legalization.

Seniors showed the strongest opposition to iGaming, with 82 percent of respondents saying they were against it. Women, college graduates, and both Democrats and Republicans all expressed at least 68 percent majority opposition to legalization.

“These results make it clear: once Hoosiers understand what iGambling really is, they reject it, across every region, party and demographic,” said NAAiG Board Member Daniel A. Reinhard. “Our survey didn't just test opposition messages. It tested the industry's own best arguments. 

“Even then, Indiana voters see through the hype. They don't want casino gambling on their phones.”

The NAAiG also argued that online gambling strips customers from retail casinos, which generates less tax revenue and job losses.

A general lack of knowledge

While the recent study may have indicated that there’s local opposition against iGaming, that does not mean that there isn’t any support.

iGaming proponents claim that online casino gambling actually supplements retail facilities. New Jersey has been proof positive of that, as the state’s iGaming and retail casino markets have both grown (although online gambling grew at a quicker rate).

There’s also a general lack of familiarity with the iGaming industry. According to the study, 65 percent of voters were unaware of what the market was when they were asked for their feelings. 58 percent expressed initial opposition upon learning of its existence.

The study also reported that 59 percent of respondents in counties with land-based casinos were still opposed to the legalization of online gambling.

“Indiana voters understand the difference between responsible, in-person entertainment and a 24-hour online casino in every pocket,” Reinhard said. “This poll shows that no amount of marketing spin can overcome the serious social and economic concerns that come with iGaming.”