Nebraska Sports Figures Lead Opposition to Online Betting Ballot Measures Citing Risks to Athletes and Integrity
Tom Osborne and 44 University of Nebraska figures oppose ballot measures 440 and 441 to legalize online sports betting, warning of risks to athletes, families, and sports integrity. The campaigns, funded by $14 million from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Fanatics, promise $60 million for property tax relief. Voters decide in days.
SCCG Take — The Nebraska contest shows operators must directly counter local integrity and tradition concerns to prevail in states with deep athletic roots.
Less than two weeks before voters go to the polls, iconic former Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne joined 44 other University of Nebraska coaches and players in publicly opposing the legalization of online sports betting.
Nebraska voters will consider two ballot measures, 440 and 441, that would legalize online sports bets. In-person wagering has been live since June 2023. Approval would mark the second time in six years that Nebraskans have approved gambling expansion.
The initiatives are financed in large part by DraftKings and FanDuel, with support from BetMGM and Fanatics Sportsbook. Proponents had funded the campaign with about $14 million through September 29.
Integrity of the Entire Sport Is at Risk
Opponents organized as Save Nebraska Sports argue that commercial operators do not care about the state’s athletes, traditions, or families. The letter states these groups see the state as another market and every phone as another casino.
Six football and wrestling coaches signed the letter along with athletes from football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and women’s tennis. It cites FBI warnings that criminal actors attempt to manipulate games by exploiting athletes facing financial difficulties, substance abuse, or gambling problems. “When fans begin questioning whether the outcome of a game is determined by honest competition, the integrity of the entire sport is at risk.”
The Nebraska Family Alliance posted on X: “Online sports betting would put a casino in every Nebraskan’s pocket — and put our athletes, our kids, and our families on the wrong end of the wager. It takes money from Nebraska kitchen tables and sends it to out-of-state gambling companies, and turns every game our kids love…”
Save Nebraska Sports is backed by the Nebraska Family Alliance, the state auditor, the state treasurer, and a Nebraska football assistant coach.
Proponents Promise Property Tax Relief
Tax Relief Nebraska says legal online sports betting would bring in $60 million in tax revenue to support local communities and dedicate millions annually to property tax relief. A 2025 fiscal note for similar legislation projected $9.2 million in 2026 and $20.4 million in 2029 at a 20% tax rate.
If the measures pass, each approved land-based facility would be allowed up to two online betting partners. The gaming regulator would be required to promulgate rules by June 1, 2027.
This development was detailed in reporting by InGame.
Reporting: InGame
Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.
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