Nebraska Gambling Laws Decoded A Total Overview

History and Timeline for Nebraska Online Gambling

The history and timeline of online gambling in Nebraska provide insight into the evolving landscape of gambling activities within the state. In 1934, the Nebraska State Constitution saw a pivotal amendment allowing for the regulation of pari-mutuel horse race wagering at licensed race tracks. Subsequent milestones include the 1958 constitutional amendment legalizing bingo games and the 1967 expansion of Nebraska's charitable gambling to include lotteries and raffles.

In 1988, a notable development occurred with the allowance of simulcast betting on horse races statewide. The Nebraska State-run Lottery became operational in 1992, introducing a new dimension to the state's gambling offerings. The year 2011 marked the operational debut of Ohiya Casino, contributing to the diverse gambling landscape in Nebraska.

A significant turning point came in 2020 when state voters approved the inclusion of legal casino gaming options at horse racing tracks. This decision paved the way for further expansion, culminating in the legalization of retail sports betting at licensed race tracks in 2021.

Despite these advancements, the scope of online gambling in Nebraska remains limited. The state exclusively permits parimutuel horse race betting through various off-track betting (OTB) apps. Online casino gaming and poker lack official licensing or regulation, with no substantial legislative initiatives addressing these aspects. Sports betting, meanwhile, is exclusively of the land-based, in-person variety.

In addressing gambling with offshore sites, Nebraska statutes under Section 28 of the Nebraska Code make it illegal to participate in games of chance for money and to promote unlawful gambling operations. While the statutes have not explicitly incorporated provisions for internet gambling, they caution that conducting gambling outside the state is not a defense if it violates the laws of the jurisdiction where it occurs. Notably, state authorities have not pursued individual players for prosecution in connection with offshore gambling activities.

• 1934: Nebraska's legislative landscape witnessed a transformative moment as the State Constitution underwent an amendment, ushering in the regulation of pari-mutuel horse race wagering specifically at licensed race tracks.
• 1958: A pivotal shift occurred with the enactment of a constitutional amendment, effectively legalizing bingo games across the state of Nebraska, broadening the scope of permissible gambling activities.
• 1967: Nebraska's charitable gambling sector experienced significant growth as the legislature expanded its purview to encompass lotteries and raffles, contributing to the diversification of lawful gambling options.
• 1988: The legislative framework adapted to the changing dynamics of the gambling industry as simulcast betting on horse races gained approval, becoming a statewide offering and reflecting a broader acceptance of innovative wagering formats.
• 1992: Marking a significant milestone, the Nebraska State-run Lottery became operational, introducing a new avenue for legal gambling within the state and contributing to the fundraising initiatives outlined in the state's legal framework.
• 2011: Ohiya Casino entered the scene, becoming operational and adding to the array of gambling establishments within Nebraska, further shaping the landscape of legal gaming options.
• 2020: Responding to evolving preferences, state voters endorsed a groundbreaking development by approving legal casino gaming options at horse racing tracks, marking a substantial shift in the state's approach to gambling regulation.
• 2021: Reflecting contemporary trends in the industry, the legislative landscape adapted once again with the legalization of retail sports betting at licensed race tracks, aligning Nebraska with broader national movements in the realm of sports wagering.

Legalization of Sports Betting in Nebraska

In May 2021, Nebraska marked a significant legislative milestone by legalizing sports betting, responding to a 2020 ballot initiative that garnered substantial voter support for the expansion of gambling activities. However, as of March 2023, the state has encountered delays in launching its retail-only sports betting industry. The legislative journey began with the unanimous approval of rules for sports betting by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission on October 21, 2022.

Governor Pete Ricketts signing the retail sports betting bill in 2021.

Governor Pete Ricketts signed the retail sports betting bill, LB561, into law on June 1, 2021, following the state legislature's passage of the sports betting bill, also LB561, on May 21, 2021. These legislative actions were catalyzed by the groundbreaking decision of Nebraska voters on November 3, 2020, to approve expanded gambling within the state. While Nebraska sportsbooks are permitted to accept wagers on professional, collegiate, and international sports, as well as esports, there are restrictions in place. Notably, betting on individual college athletes or Nebraska college teams playing within the state is prohibited. Moreover, online and mobile betting is currently unauthorized, limiting the scope of accessibility for sports wagering enthusiasts.

The legalization of sports betting in Nebraska aligns with broader national shifts, catalyzed by the US Supreme Court's overruling of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) on May 14, 2018, granting individual states the autonomy to decide on the legalization of sports betting. Despite delays in the retail rollout, leading offshore sites continue to cater to Nebraskans, providing online betting options on a diverse range of events and games.

• May 14, 2018: A landmark moment in the history of sports betting in the United States, the US Supreme Court overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This pivotal decision grants individual states the authority to decide on the legalization of sports betting, sparking a wave of legislative activity across the nation.
• Nov. 3, 2020: Nebraska voters make a decisive move towards expanded gambling within the state by approving a ballot initiative. This significant mandate sets the stage for subsequent legislative actions, reflecting a shift in public sentiment and paving the way for the legalization of sports betting.
• May 21, 2021: Responding to the voter-approved initiative, the Nebraska state legislature passes sports betting bill LB561. This legislative milestone establishes the legal framework for sports betting within the state, defining the parameters for permissible wagering activities.
• June 1, 2021: Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts signs retail sports betting bill LB561 into law. This official endorsement signifies the formal legalization of sports betting in the state, and retail establishments begin preparing for the introduction of regulated sports wagering.
• Oct. 21, 2022: The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission takes a crucial step in the implementation process by unanimously approving rules for sports betting. These regulations provide the necessary structure for the industry, ensuring fair practices, consumer protection, and effective oversight.
• 2023 (current status): Despite earlier legislative approvals and the establishment of regulatory guidelines, Nebraska faces delays in launching its retail-only sports betting industry. The current status reflects the challenges and complexities involved in the practical implementation of sports betting, underscoring the intricate balance between regulatory readiness and operational execution.