A proposed Constitutional amendment that would allow online sports betting under certain circumstances in Nebraska has cleared the first round of debate in the Legislature.
Under terms of LR-20CA, gaming operators at licensed racetracks in Nebraska could offer sports wagering through mobile platforms, provided the bettor is located within the state when placing the
wager.
Sen. Brad von Gillern of Elkhorn expressed his opposition to the idea during debate Monday, saying sports gaming encourages addictive behavior.
“Unlike casino games, sports betting can create the illusion that skill or knowledge gives bettors an edge. This can lead to overconfidence and more frequent betting. My understanding is that slot machines is the most addictive form of casino gambling, and you have zero control over that. So the compulsive behavior that can lead to or the behavior that leads to compulsive behavior with sports gambling is even more, more addictive,” von Gillern said.
Lincoln Sen. Elliot Bostar, sponsor of the measure, said he didn’t introduce the resolution because sports gambling is something he supports, but because it’s already happening in Nebraska. “I can’t tell you how many people have come to me, and talked to me about how they are already doing this, how they do it from their phone,” said Bostar. “I’ve had people in this building and I’m not going to about them, talk about how they place bets from inside the state capitol building. It’s happening., (and) we’re giving our revenue to other states.
Tax revenues generated through such online wagering would dedicated to the state’s Property Tax Credit Fund.
Other lawmakers noted it would be up to voters to give final approval if such gambling should be made legal, and the measure advanced from the first round of debate on a vote of 27-16.
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