Key Moments:
- DraftKings and FanDuel each have injected $3.5 million into the Nebraska campaign supporting online sports betting between July 28, 2026, and September 29, 2026
- Tax Relief Nebraska reported over $5.42 million in cash reserves as it enters the final month before the Nov. 3 referendums
- A state-commissioned study has projected that nearly $87 million in new tax revenue could be generated in the first five years if voters approve
Major Stakeholders Fuel Campaign Warchest
As the Nov. 3 vote on online sports wagering approaches, the committee led by Tax Relief Nebraska has seen substantial funding from major industry players. Financial reports filed with the Nebraska Accountability and Disclosure Commission reveal DraftKings and FanDuel each contributed $3,500,000 to the campaign between July 28, 2026, and September 29, 2026, after already providing matching contributions of $3,537,000 earlier. BetMGM also increased its backing by an additional $250,000. Fanatics, after donating $75,000 previously, has not made another donation in this reporting cycle.
Spending Patterns and Opposition Activity
Tax Relief Nebraska holds more than $5,420,000 in available funds as the campaign enters its critical final stretch. During the latest reporting period, the campaign allocated $2,290,000, mainly dedicated to media placement, but also covering research, surveys, legal counsel, design, and postal expenses. The main opposition, led by the Nebraska Family Alliance, has reported only $2,109 in spending during the same period, which was primarily for distribution of its “Voter Guide” to residents statewide.
How Sports Betting Would Be Structured
Should Nebraska voters endorse Initiative Measures 440 and 441, racetrack casinos would be empowered to run or partner with up to two online sportsbooks each. This structure would grant racetrack casinos – rather than the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission – the authority to secure online sportsbook partnerships, which would then apply for permits with the state regulator.
| Major Contributors | Recent Contributions | Total Prior Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | $3,500,000 | $3,537,000 |
| FanDuel | $3,500,000 | $3,537,000 |
| BetMGM | $250,000 | Not stated |
| Fanatics | None this period | $75,000 |
Tax Impact and Property Tax Relief
If the sports betting measures pass, the resulting state tax revenue from online bets would be directed to homeowners through property tax credits. Presently, gross gaming receipts from slots and table games are taxed at a rate of 20%, with 70% of that earmarked for the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund. According to a report prepared for Tax Relief Nebraska, the state could see nearly $87 million in incremental tax revenue over the first five years of online sports betting, with an estimated $61 million flowing to property tax relief if the 70% allocation stands.
Limitations on College Sports Betting
Regardless of the Nov. 3 referendum results, wagering on in-state college athletic events would not be permitted under the proposed measures.
- Author
Daniel Williams
