In a 67-page document released by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission, the state regulator has revealed that operators that apply for a license to operate casinos in six race tracks would have to pay an upfront fee of $1 million.
The document outlines suggested regulations for the proposed casino industry and confirms that any licenses issued will be valid for an initial period of 20 years.
According to the regulations, all six casinos must be smoke-free while only licensed security officers and law enforcement will be allowed to carry firearms in the properties.
Speaking of the new regulations, Lynne McNally, Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association EVP, said:
“The regulations are very comprehensive, they’re heavy on security, integrity, background investigations, all of the things you need to maintain honestly across the industry and I think they’re great.”
However, not all are on board with the new industry. Chris Kotulak, CEO of Fonner Park Racetrack feels that the regulations have failed to place a limit on the number of race tracks and casino licenses the state can have at any one time saying:
“There’s not the human or equine infrastructure in place to support any more racing than we already have.”
The release of the casino regulations comes almost one year to the day since Nebraska voters approved the expansion of existing gambling laws to allow race tracks to launch casino gaming on their properties. Now that the regulations have been released, a public hearing will take place on December 17th.
Although the electorate was heavily in favor of allowing casino gambling, there has been no move by lawmakers as of yet to introduce sports wagering legislation. However, if the public hearing on the rules goes well, the topic could be brought up for discussion when the legislature reconvenes in January 2022.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.