Nebraska Leaders Unite Against Online Sports Betting Legalization

Prominent Nebraska figures, including former Governor Kay Orr, former Congressman and Coach Tom Osborne, former Lieutenant Governor Mike Foley, and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts, have publicly voiced their opposition to proposed legislation that would legalize online sports betting in the state. In a joint letter, the leaders warned that expanding gambling to online platforms could increase addiction, particularly among young men, and harm local economies by diverting funds from small businesses. “We encourage legislators to reject LR20CA and protect our youth and families from the suffering that comes with the addiction that online gambling brings,” the letter stated. Nebraska Family Alliance Executive Director Nate Grasz echoed their concerns, highlighting the ease of access to online betting and its link to addiction, financial hardship, and exposure to harmful advertising. Both Grasz and the state leaders urged lawmakers in the Unicameral to reject the constitutional amendment LR20CA.