Nebraska’s commercial gaming sector achieved a remarkable $21.1 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in April, as reported by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission. This figure represents a significant increase from the $8.2 million posted in April of the prior year, when just one casino was fully operational in the state.
The vast majority of April’s GGR came from electronic gaming devices, which generated $18.1 million. Electronic table games contributed $429,943, while traditional table games accounted for $2 million. Retail sportsbooks collected $496,207.
Performance data from individual casinos shows positive growth across all four venues: WarHorse Casino Lincoln, Grand Island Casino & Resort, Harrah’s Columbus, and WarHorse Casino Omaha.
WarHorse Casino Omaha, which had limited operations in April 2024, saw its revenue jump from $40,117 to $6.8 million. Harrah’s Columbus, also operating under constraints during the same timeframe, reported growth from $1,551 to $2.3 million.
Grand Island Casino & Resort experienced a 59.1% surge in revenue, increasing from $3.4 million to $5.4 million, while WarHorse Casino Lincoln enjoyed a 33.2% rise, moving from $4.8 million to $6.4 million.
The state’s four gaming facilities collectively contributed $4.2 million in tax revenue from the GGR in April.
The recent openings of new establishments significantly impacted the April revenue figures. WarHorse Casino Omaha launched in August 2024 with 925 gaming positions, several table games, and a dining option. The second phase of this property was unveiled in April, adding over 400 gaming positions, a dedicated smoking area, and diverse dining options.
Harrah’s Columbus Racing & Casino, Nebraska’s second permanent casino, opened in May 2024, while the permanent Grand Island Casino Resort at Fonner Park debuted in April of this year.
Nebraska’s commercial casinos are situated alongside racetrack facilities, offering onsite sports wagering. Notably, state laws currently prohibit online betting and iGaming. A recent legislative push to legalize online sports betting did not progress in April due to a lack of support.