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Read Full BioNebraska’s four commercial casinos generated $24.5 million in revenue in May, marking a 149.3% increase from May 2024.
The rapid growth was largely due to the full opening of Warhorse Casino Omaha, which generated $9.8 million in revenue. The venue opened in August last year, featuring 800 slots, before the full opening in April.
The complex now features 1,200 slot machines, as well as sports betting, thanks to a partnership with Kambi signed in 2023.
After the Omaha complex, Warhorse Lincoln Casino generated $7.8 million, followed by Grand Island Casino & Resort at $5.6 million, and Harrah’s Columbus at $2.3 million.
The four racetracks expanded into casinos following voters’ approval of an amendment to Nebraska gambling laws in 2020. The venues now complement the state’s five tribal casinos.
There are plans to open two more commercial casinos in the state, with Warhorse opening a third venue at South Sioux City. Additionally, Elite Casino Resorts is planning a $100 million Lake Mac Casino Resort project at a new racetrack in Ogallala. The temporary casino is scheduled to open on Aug. 19.
Slots Driving Revenue To Add To State Funds
Slots accounted for over 80% of the revenue generated in May at $20.5 million. That total was particularly boosted by the expansion of Warhorse Omaha, which added 400 more machines to its floors.
The state collects 20% of revenue on tax from casinos, equating to $4.84 million in May. Last year, the casinos generated $145.7 million, which led to $29.1 million in taxes.
Nebraska allocates 70% of the funds to the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund, 25% to host cities and counties, 2.5% to the State General Fund, and the final 2.5% to a Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund.
Nebraska Yet To Expand To Online Gambling
The four racinos in the state are now allowed to offer sports betting in addition to casino games and horse racing wagering. But plans to expand beyond in-person gambling have yet to garner support.
A bill to legalize online sports betting made some progress earlier this year. It was voted 27-16 in favor before passing out of the General Affairs Committee.
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Elliot Bostar, however, withdrew the legislation, citing a lack of support to make it all the way into law. Opposition voices claimed that legalization would lead to an increase in problem gambling, bankruptcy, and drug abuse.
Lawmakers may revisit the matter next year, and it could be put to a public vote if there is enough appetite in the chambers.
Additionally, Sen. Tom Brandt introduced a bill to expand sports betting at the racinos. LB 63 proposed allowing pre-match and live wagering on in-state college sporting events. The bill also died in committee, however, due to a lack of support.
There is no active push to expand gaming to allow online casinos. Nebraska has no specific law against sweepstakes, but some operators have exited the state amid a crackdown across the country.
