Letter released condemning online sports wagering signed by Tom Osborne, 44 former and current Huskers

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Save Nebraska Sports initiative revealed a new letter, signed by 45 Husker athletes and coaches, including Tom Osborne.

The letter urges Nebraskans to vote against online sports betting, specifically initiatives 440 and 441.

Initiatives 440 and 441, proposed by Tax Relief Nebraska, would amend Nebraska’s constitution, allowing residents to place wagers on sports through internet-based platforms.

Other signers were Ron Brown, Mark Manning, former player Turner Gill, former player Roy Helu Jr, multiple current Nebraska baseball players and other sports, according to Save Nebraska Sports.

The letter says that allowing gambling will only profit out of state corporations.

“Out of state gambling conglomerates are seeking to make a profit off of fans and players. This will undermine the integrity of college athletics by bringing unrestricted online sports gambling and relentless advertising for online sports betting to Nebraska. These groups do not care about our athletes, our traditions, or Nebraska families. They see our state as another market and every phone as another casino,” the letter states.

Tax Relief Nebraska says online sports wagering will give Nebraskans property tax relief. According to their website, the initiatives are proposed to bring $166 million over 10 years to the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund, according to a case study.

The letter says it will harm the integrity of the sport.

“The FBI also warns criminal actors attempt to manipulate games by exploiting athletes facing financial difficulties, substance abuse, or gambling problems,” the letter reads. “When fans begin questioning whether the outcome of a game is determined by honest competition, the integrity of the entire sport is at risk. Husker athletics is about teamwork, discipline, competition, and pride in our state.”