Casinos say ‘skill games’ are a loophole in Nebraska gambling law

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The games in convenience stores and grocery stores that look like slot machines are becoming a cause of concern in Nebraska.

They’re called “skill games,” and opponents say they’re not regulated enough.

Some flags being raised: They can create another form of gambling addiction, and money received from them is not taxed.

And casinos say the situation is unfair. The must pay $5 million to get a license; skill game operators only have to pay $250 to operate.

Lynne McNally, CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, said there are 5,000 skill game machines in Nebraska.

“We would have to build three more casinos just to match the number of machines that are out in the field unregulated,” she said.

But Dave Shoemaker, owner of Shoemaker’s truck stop, said the money from skill machines allow businesses to pay employees a competitive wage and benefits.