Horse racing, gaming officials like the changes passed by Nebraska Legislature

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – On Tuesday, the Nebraska Legislature approved several changes to the state’s gambling laws, sending them to the governor’s desk.

The bill, LB 775, changes provisions around horse racing and gambling, such as defining what a racetrack is in Nebraska.

Another change creates a hearing panel for gaming violations to streamline the judicial process.

The Racing and Gaming Commission said some of the changes came at its request.

“We actually asked the General Affairs Committee for this bill ’cause we wanted the definition of a racetrack enclosure,” Executive Director Tom Sage said. “We’re very happy that it’s on the governor’s desk.”

Sen. John Lowe of Kearney introduced the bill and said it would not expand gambling in Nebraska but would help regulate it and make sure facilities are following the rules.

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Lynne McNally, CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, said that while the bill may seem inconsequential, the horse racing community is excited about the bill.

“There are things that maybe the public doesn’t notice, but they’re very, very important to the industry,” she said. “I am so grateful to the legislators for helping us out with this. It’s been a very difficult legislative session.”

McNally said some other changes had to do with upgrading technology within casinos.

For example, the bill allows for electronic Keno, which is a lottery-like game played in many casinos.

If passed, people will be able to play Keno with an app on their phone while at a casino, rather than using slips of paper.

“Right now, if you recall, you play Keno with a crayon,” McNally said. “I think you should be able to use better technology than that. They deserve better than to be the kindergarten of gambling.”

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One change she’d like to see next year is to remove the prohibition on betting on sports games in Nebraska.

McNally said anything wagered in casinos in the state, including sports bets, will benefit Nebraskans, as 20% of the revenue goes to property tax relief funds.

“That helps all Nebraskans who own property, whether there’s a casino next to you or not,” she said.

She said another 25% of a casino’s revenue goes to the city it’s located in.

“So, the City of Lincoln, Lancaster County, the City of Omaha and Douglas County have direct benefits from the casinos,” she said. “We think that’s essential for the community. It provides them much-needed funds and helps everyone.”