In Nebraska, casino proprietors are collaborating with sports betting operators to promote petitions aimed at the legalization of online gambling, striving to present the matter to voters via a ballot initiative.
The organizers are disseminating two petitions – one advocating for a constitutional amendment while the other seeks a statutory measure – as they work to amass sufficient signatures for the proposal to be included on the ballot.
According to Nebraska law, supporters need to gather signatures from 5% of the voters from the last election, with this requirement applicable across 38 counties.
“We require signatures from five percent of individuals who voted in the last election – that equates to if 100 people voted, five signatures are necessary – and these must come from 38 counties,” explained Lance Morgan, CEO of Warhorse Casino.
The initiative is targeting around 300,000 signatures, which is considerably higher than the minimum mandate.
Morgan indicated that surveys initiated by supporters reveal significant public support for the legalization of online gambling within the state.
“I anticipate no difficulties in getting it approved. Our polling indicates a favorable response of around 70 percent,” he stated. “And that’s before the sports betting surge here.”
This initiative could serve as a new revenue stream for Nebraska, where lawmakers are focused on balancing the state’s budget and offering property tax relief.
“When I project three million per month, that appears accurate, possibly even conservative, making it a substantial tax contributor for the state,” Morgan mentioned.
Nevertheless, the proposal encounters resistance from anti-gambling factions, which have voiced apprehensions regarding addiction. They cite that approximately 50% of online gambling revenue is derived from individuals struggling with addiction.
Morgan recognized the valid concerns expressed by critics.
“I believe the anti-gambling groups raise an important point. It’s crucial to prevent abuse,” he added.
Petitions are expected to be submitted by July. Should the initiative gain approval, Morgan conveyed that Nebraska residents may likely place sports wagers through their mobile devices by next year’s March Madness.
If the measure is sanctioned, Morgan speculates that state lawmakers would not procrastinate in acting on the matter.
“We experienced slight delays concerning gaming and the casino sector, but we navigated through it,” Morgan asserted. “Now, urgency regarding tax revenue is evidently a priority.”
“I believe the state recognizes that this is a demand from the populace,” he concluded.