Nebraska mulls over mobile sports betting as a means to provide property tax relief

Nebraska gaming officials are advocating for residents to be allowed to place sports bets on their phones or mobile devices, which could generate an additional $30 million annually for property tax relief. Ho Chunk Inc., which operates War Horse Casinos, conducted a poll showing that 65% of Nebraskans support this initiative. Both the governor and state Senator Terrell McKinney have expressed support for mobile sports wagering, citing the missed revenue as Nebraskans currently cross into Iowa to place bets. Governor Jim Pillen, despite personal reservations about online sports betting, sees the potential for significant revenue to cut property taxes in half. The upcoming special session on July 25 provides lawmakers with an opportunity to let voters decide on mobile sports wagering through a constitutional amendment on the November ballot. This option is seen as a more palatable way to raise money for property tax relief compared to other proposed alternatives. The move could provide the governor with another option for property tax relief, even if he does not necessarily support gambling. The special session’s outcome will not only impact the state’s financial resources but also provide relief to Nebraskans burdened by high property taxes.

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