A lawmaker in Nebraska is looking to lift the state’s ban on in-state college sports betting.
Sen. Tom Brandt has introduced a measure, Legislative Bill 63, as a piece of legislation that amends the Nebraska Racetrack Gaming Act to allow pre-match and live wagering on in-state college sporting events. The bill, also sponsored by Sen. Danielle Conrad and Stan Clouse, makes changes to a regulated market that only offers retail wagering.
In 2023, Nebraska opened its doors as a retail sports betting market with wagering only authorized at licensed casinos. The state launched retail betting after a lengthy approval process of its regulatory framework following former Gov. Pete Ricketts’ signature.
Brandt’s effort to bring in-state college betting to Nebraska presents a promising opportunity for sports fans and operators in the state due to its rich history of college sports.
Nebraska hosts marquee events at the University of Nebraska and Creighton University. It is also home to the Summit League’s University of Nebraska-Omaha.
Online sports betting efforts in Nebraska
Last August, lawmakers attempted to bring online sports betting to Nebraska during a special legislative session but the effort failed after Sen. Elliot Bostar and others proposed an amendment to the state’s Gaming Act. The special session, which lasted 17 days, saw Bostar introduce LR3CA, which proposed online sports betting through licensed casinos.
LR3CA failed to progress during the session despite not being discussed on the Senate floor. Last year, a group of 13 Nebraska senators voiced their opposition to online wagering.
Similar legislation outside of Nebraska
Last year, New Jersey Assemblyman Michael Venezia introduced Resolution 140 as a measure that amends the state’s constitution to allow wagering on “all college sports or athletic events.” The bill, which was referred to the New Jersey Legislature’s Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee, applies to all state-licensed operators.
