Rule could spur more trips to Indiana casinos

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By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Jul 5, 2008 at 9:56 PM EST

Story Updated: Jul 5, 2008 at 9:56 PM EST

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — State gaming regulators have approved a rule change that could bring more high-rollers to Indiana casinos on group trips that often include free meals or rooms for gamblers.

The Indiana Gaming Commission approved a new rule that makes business cheaper and easier for so-called "junketeers" — firms that organize casino trips and are generally paid based on how much their customers gamble or are expected to gamble.

Under the rule change, junketeer firms no longer must be licensed casino suppliers, and will no longer have to pay a $5,000 fee. Now companies will register with the state and pay a fee of $250 for the business, plus $75 for each individual junketeer.

"Our casinos are becoming more destination resort-style facilities," said Jennifer Arnold, the gaming commission's deputy director. "We would certainly like to see more people from out of state come visit. The goal is to see if we can help the casinos generate more revenue from high-level players."

Gerald Ades, the owner of Bluegrass Travel in Louisville, said he's organized gambling trips to Mississippi, New Jersey and Louisiana for nearly 30 years. But he's never done business with an Indiana casino because of the steep licensing fee.

"It's ridiculous," he said, adding that the $250 registration fee is more in line with other states.

The change is already in effect through an emergency rule, and the commission plans to make it permanent after a July 29 public hearing. No opposition is expected, Arnold said.

Rick Mazer, a Harrah's regional vice president, said Indiana has been losing gambling business because of its old rule. He estimates the change could bring as much as $20 million in additional annual gambling to Indiana's 13 casinos, including the new facility at the state's two horse racing tracks.

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Information from: The Courier-Journal of Louisville, Ky., http://www.courier-journal.com

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