Save Nebraska Sports Opposes Online Betting Measures

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Published: Tue Sep 15, 2026, 7:00 am ET

Read Time: 4 minutes

Save Nebraska Sports Opposes Online Betting Measures

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Save Nebraska Sports has launched a campaign opposing two measures that could expand online sports betting in Nebraska. The coalition formally began its campaign ahead of the November 3 election.

The two ballot measures would establish a statewide framework for mobile sports wagering. If approved, the proposals could allow online betting through Nebraska's licensed racetracks.

Supporters say the expansion could create new tax revenue and provide property tax relief. However, Save Nebraska Sports argues that those benefits come with significant costs for Nebraska residents.

Two Online Sports Betting Measures Face Voters

Nebraska voters will consider two separate measures concerning online sports betting on November 3.

The first measure would amend the Nebraska Constitution to authorize online sports wagering. It would allow licensed racetrack operators to offer sports betting through online platforms.

The second measure would create the statutory framework for that expansion. It would establish how online sportsbooks operate and how the state regulates them.

The regulatory measure would also address licensing and operational requirements for online betting platforms. Under the proposals, Nebraska could eventually have up to 12 statewide mobile sportsbooks.

Together, the measures would move Nebraska beyond its existing retail sports betting market. Voters would first need to approve the constitutional change before the broader online system could take effect.

The distinction matters because the measures serve different purposes. One would give constitutional permission for online sports betting, while the other would provide the rules governing the market.

Coalition Challenges Property Tax Relief Claims

State Auditor Mike Foley and State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg have joined the campaign against the measures. Former Nebraska football figures Ron Brown and Tom Osborne also oppose the expansion.

Foley has particularly challenged claims surrounding property tax relief. He argues that voters could receive less benefit than supporters suggest.

"As state auditor, I feel an obligation to inform the cities you're being scammed on a false promise of property tax relief," Foley said, "which is very sensitive to you. False promise of getting tax relief when you're not going to get it."

The opposition campaign points to an estimated $87 million in potential property tax relief. However, Spellerberg argues that Nebraska bettors could lose more than $435 million to generate that amount.

The coalition also questions where much of the betting revenue would ultimately go. National operators already dominate the US online sportsbooks market. 

Companies such as DraftKings and FanDuel could therefore capture a substantial share of Nebraska's mobile betting activity.

Save Nebraska Sports says Nebraska gambling policy should prioritize residents rather than major sportsbook companies.

Save Nebraska Sports Raises Athlete Concerns

The coalition is also focusing on responsible gambling and student-athlete welfare. It argues that mobile betting would expose more residents to gambling advertising and promotions.

That concern extends to college sports, where player performances can become betting markets. The coalition says those markets can create additional pressure on student athletes.

Nate Grasz, executive director of the Nebraska Family Alliance, criticized sportsbook operators and their financial interests.

"They are seeking to make a profit at the expense of Nebraska families, businesses, fans and student athletes," Grasz said.

The coalition has also cited NCAA research about harassment directed at college athletes. Save Nebraska Sports argues that increased betting activity could intensify that problem.

Nebraska Voters Will Decide in November

The two measures would represent a major expansion of Nebraska's existing sports betting market. Retail sportsbooks currently operate through the state's licensed racetracks.

The proposals would allow mobile wagering statewide while creating additional regulatory requirements. The measures could eventually permit as many as 12 statewide online sportsbook platforms.

Supporters have significant financial backing for their campaign. Major sportsbook companies contributed millions of dollars toward the effort to place the measures before voters.

Consequently, Nebraska's November election will feature a major debate over the future of online sports betting.

Supporters will emphasize potential tax revenue and property tax relief. Meanwhile, Save Nebraska Sports will argue that those benefits do not outweigh the financial and social risks.

Voters will ultimately decide whether Nebraska should expand its gambling market into mobile sports betting. The result could also determine the state's next chapter in regulated Nebraska gambling.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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