Efforts to legalize online sports betting in Nebraska took a step forward on Monday as a proposed constitutional amendment cleared the first hurdle in the state's legislative process. Legislative Resolution 20CA, introduced by Sen. Eliot Bostar, would allow voters to decide the fate of online sports wagering in the November 2026 election.
Key Takeaways
- Nebraska's online sports betting bill passed first vote, still faces challenges.
- A constitutional amendment needs 30–33 votes; opponents plan filibuster.
- Supporters cite lost tax revenue; opponents warn of social consequences.
The measure advanced with a 27-16 vote in the 49-member unicameral legislature. However, the resolution faces a steep climb.
Constitutional amendments require 30 votes to advance in later debate stages and 33 votes if a filibuster is employed. Opponents have already indicated plans to mount a filibuster during the next round of discussions.
Sen. Bostar argued that Nebraskans are already placing online sports bets, but in neighboring states where the practice is legal. He stated that the state is forfeiting potential tax revenue, pointing to Iowa as a prime example.
Supporters of LR 20CA contend that legalizing and regulating online sports betting in Nebraska would keep revenue within the state and allow Nebraska to establish its own framework of consumer protections and restrictions. Sen. Bostar has projected that legalization could generate at least $32 million annually in new tax revenue, which he suggested could be used for property tax relief.
Several senators who were absent from Monday's vote have expressed support for the measure. Sens. Beau Ballard, Tom Brandt, and Jane Raybould signaled they favor the resolution. However, Sens. Rita Sanders and Brian Hardin had previously voted against a similar proposal, and Sen. Glen Meyer indicated he remains undecided.
Significant opposition remains
Opposition to the measure has been vocal and includes lawmakers and public figures. Sen. Brad von Gillern, chair of the Revenue Committee, distributed materials highlighting the potential social consequences of expanded gambling, including addiction, financial hardship, and mental health issues.
Former Nebraska Gov. Kay Orr, U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, state auditor Mike Foley, and former University of Nebraska football coach and Congressman Tom Osborne also urged lawmakers to reject the resolution. Gov. Jim Pillen, who succeeded Gov. Ricketts, has taken a different stance. He supports the legalization of online sports betting in Nebraska and has made property tax relief a significant priority of his administration.
The debate also touched on the broader issue of voter-led initiatives. Several lawmakers warned that if the legislature fails to act, outside groups may pursue a more expansive ballot measure on their own.
Sens. Stan Clouse and Jason Prokop, the latter of whom made Sen. Bostar's resolution his legislative priority for 2025, argued that legislative action would allow for more controlled implementation and oversight.
Not all opposition stemmed from a general aversion to gambling. Sen. Margo Juarez, a self-described progressive and occasional casino patron, said the convenience of mobile betting increased the risk of compulsive behavior and rapid debt accumulation. She noted that while in-person gambling involves a physical effort and social experience, mobile wagering can be instantaneous and isolating.
Ultimately, the future of LR 20CA depends on whether Sen. Bostar and his allies can build a coalition strong enough to overcome strong opposition.
