Nebraska lawmakers advance online sports betting ballot measure

Nebraska lawmakers on Monday advanced a proposal that could allow voters to decide whether to legalize online sports betting, marking the first of three legislative approvals needed to place the measure on the state’s 2026 general election ballot.

Legislative Resolution 20CA, introduced by State Senator Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, passed its initial floor vote in the state’s unicameral legislature by a 27-16 margin, with six lawmakers not voting. The measure would need 30 votes—three-fifths of the 49-member chamber—at final reading to be adopted and placed on the ballot.

If ultimately approved, the constitutional amendment would permit Nebraska’s six licensed casinos and racetracks to partner with one online sportsbook each to offer mobile betting. Bostar estimates the move could generate up to $32 million annually in new tax revenue, primarily earmarked for property tax relief.

“Your green vote today empowers the voters of Nebraska to make a decision for themselves,” Bostar said. “It also ensures the Legislature retains the authority to determine the terms, conditions, and regulations under which mobile sports betting could be permitted in Nebraska.”

The resolution moves next to the Enrollment and Review Initial stage, followed by Select File and a final reading.

Opponents have voiced concerns about the social costs of expanded gambling, including potential harm to young men and college students. At a March public hearing, testimony opposing the measure outnumbered support by 51 to 3.

“This does not come for free,” said Sen. Brad von Gillern, one of the resolution’s most vocal critics. “This is property tax relief at a great expense, folks. We cannot gamble the lives of our young people away.”

Senators Robert Clements and von Gillern, who chair the Appropriations and Revenue committees respectively, opposed the measure despite Nebraska facing a projected $289 million budget shortfall.

Critics have also warned of aggressive advertising tactics by betting companies and questioned whether the estimated revenue would sufficiently offset potential negative effects.

Still, Bostar and other proponents argue that legalization would help regulate an existing unlicensed market. Many Nebraskans currently travel to neighboring Iowa or use virtual private networks (VPNs) to place bets online, according to supporters.

“We saw last February that proponents were considering moving forward with a petition effort,” Bostar said. “The version that reaches the ballot may not reflect the careful regulatory framework that this body would establish.”

Gov. Jim Pillen has indicated he would sign a sports wagering bill if it were passed by lawmakers. Other notable supporters include Sens. Jason Prokop, Tom Brandt, and Ben Hansen.

“If the voters do legalize online sports betting, the state can take steps to address the problems that come with it,” Hansen said, suggesting revenue could fund educational campaigns and advertising regulations similar to those for tobacco products.