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The debate around online esports and sports betting is back in Nebraska. Two proposed bills that aim to legalize online wagering in the state have been carried forward into the new legislative session and will once again be discussed by lawmakers.
The bills, known as LB421 and LR20CA, were first introduced last year. LB421 was filed by Senator Stanley Clouse, while LR20CA was backed by Senator Elliot Bostar. Both proposals are now active again as Nebraska looks at the possibility of expanding its current retail sports betting system into the online space.
What the Two Bills Aim to Change
Right now, Nebraska allows sports betting only at licensed physical casinos. These bills would allow those same casinos to offer online betting, including esports wagering, through digital platforms.
Senator Bostar’s bill made notable progress last year. It passed through the General Affairs Committee with a 27–16 vote. However, Bostar later decided to pause the process, stating that the state was not fully ready at the time. With a new session underway, both bills are now back on the table.
Nebraska currently has five licensed commercial casinos. WarHorse Casino Omaha completed its full launch in April last year, while Elite Casino Resorts opened in August. Supporters believe these operators are well positioned to expand into online betting if the law allows it.
Nebraska Governor Supports Legalization
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has openly supported the move toward online sports betting. His main argument is simple: people in Nebraska are already betting online, just not within the state.
Many residents travel to nearby states like Iowa, Colorado, Kansas, and Missouri, where online betting is legal. Others use prediction-style platforms that already allow sports-related wagers.
According to Pillen, Nebraska is losing out on tax money by not regulating an activity that is already happening. He believes legalization would keep that revenue inside the state instead of sending it elsewhere.
Record Sports Betting Revenue Builds Momentum
Interest in betting is clearly growing in Nebraska. The state recorded its highest-ever sports betting revenue in November, reaching about $1.5 million for the month. That figure marked a 25% increase over the previous record set in November 2024.
Supporters of online legalization estimate that a regulated online betting market could generate up to $32 million per year in tax revenue. These funds are expected to support public services and help with property tax relief, making the proposal more attractive to lawmakers.
Other States Watching Closely
Nebraska is not alone in revisiting online betting laws. In Wisconsin, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has said he expects online sports betting legislation to reach a full vote this year. Like Nebraska, Wisconsin faces the issue of residents already placing bets across state borders.
Meanwhile, Mississippi is also considering similar changes. State Representative Kevin Felsher has shared optimism that lawmakers could approve online sports betting in 2026, while still protecting land-based casinos.
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