Bill Would Allow Voters to Decide on Sports Betting
Proponents of LR 20CA are hoping to allow Nebraska voters to decide on legalizing sports betting. If the bill passes all three votes, it will be put on the ballot in the November 2026 election. If the measure passes, it would open the door for legalization in 2027.
Public support for online sports betting has remained strong in Nebraska. Industry proponents have pointed this out, pressuring lawmakers to pass a bill. That pressure will increase by the 2026 elections, as several key opponents will be up for re-election.
Opponents Fear Losing Control on the Issue
While LR 20CA appears to be gaining momentum, it's not due to a change in heart from opponents. Instead, many lawmakers have flipped to support legalizing the bill and have cited the fear of an industry-led ballot initiative as the reason why.
Neighboring Missouri saw sports betting become legal after voters passed an industry-led ballot initiative. This broke years of legislative deadlock while allowing sportsbooks and other proponents to design the industry framework. This result has caught the attention of lawmakers in Nebraska, who believe the same could happen to them.
With sports betting remaining popular among Nebraska voters, opponents appear to be realizing their fight is doomed to fail.
Nebraska Lags Behind Neighbors
Missouri's legalization of online sports betting means that Nebraska now borders four states where the industry is legal. The one neighbor that hasn’t legalized the industry is South Dakota, but the state has a world-famous retail gambling destination in Deadwood. Nebraska lacks that, leaving bettors looking for other ways to get in on the action.
Proponents of LR 20CA believe the state’s residents are heading across the border to bet on sports. This is taking away potential tax revenue while also leading to a spike in problem gambling cases. While legalization further fuels the problem, it would also generate funding for programs to help those suffering from gambling addiction.
