Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts signed off the state’s on line casino laws on Wednesday, paving the way in which for licensing functions for the brand new market.
However potential operators must wait a couple of extra weeks earlier than they submit these functions whereas the gaming regulator will get its geese so as, experiences The Lincoln Journal Star.
The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Fee has but to agree on a payment construction for the functions. That received’t be resolved a minimum of till its subsequent assembly on June 2.
Fee director Tom Sage informed the Star Wednesday that licensing will then take 30 to 60 days to course of, earlier than going to a fee agenda for last approval (or not).
Solely then – early fall, or later summer time in the event that they’re fortunate — will Nebraska’s potential operators have the ability to start development work on their on line casino proposals.
Protecting it in Nebraska
A wholesome 64.9% of Nebraska voters accepted on line casino gaming for the state’s racetracks on the November 2020 poll. The poll initiative was backed by Ho-Chunk Inc., the financial growth arm of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, and the state’s Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protecting Affiliation (NHBPA).
Nebraska’s racetracks have been on a gradual slide since Iowa legalized on line casino playing in 1989. The poll marketing campaign committee appealed to Nebraskans’ state delight — and to their wallets.
Calling itself “Maintain the Cash in Nebraska,” it warned that an estimated $400 million hard-earned Nebraska {dollars} had been leaking into Iowa casinos every year. The group claimed legalizing on line casino playing would enhance state coffers by between $60 million and $120 million per yr
It should additionally significantly enhance the coffers of Ho-Chunk Inc., and the NHBPA. The 2 entities have partnered as much as construct casinos below the model “WarHorse” in Lincoln, Omaha, advert South Sioux Metropolis.
Non permanent Casinos
Different initiatives embrace a $220 million redevelopment of Lincoln Race Course, with a 196-room lodge tower, occasion house, plus. It’s anticipated to take 18-24 months to finish. However the observe plans to open a brief on line casino flooring whereas the principle on line casino is being constructed.
Fonner Park in Grand Island can be planning a brief on line casino whereas it redevelops its operations, and Caesars Leisure plans to construct a brand-new Harrah’s On line casino and racetrack in Columbus.
The Chickasaw Nation additionally needs to construct a brand new on line casino and horse observe in Hastings. However the tribe is at the moment scouting for a location.
A number of different operators are keen, however their proposals received’t be thought of till the Racing and Gaming Fee completes a socioeconomic influence examine of latest tracks and casinos, as ordered by the legislature.