Nebraska's Remote Gambling May Be Step to Online Gaming

Gambling on horse races at local bars is Nebraska's initial step toward the convenience of online gambling, as lawmakers look to raise revenue by easing the difficulty in placing horse racing bets.

Nebraska officials are considering expanding gambling to help the state horse racing industry. The proposal to allow simulcast betting at satellite locations may be the first step to bringing online gambling to the state.

A proposed constitutional amendment would allow wagers to be placed on live racing from satellite facilities. Proponents say the system would probably involve licensing bars to accept bets, and operate along the lines of keno.

State Senator Scott Price told the Journal-Star that the new plan doesn't really extend gambling, as simulcast wagering is already allowed. He said the measure simply allows the use of modern technology to make gambling more convenient.

"Today you can drive to an ATM and get money from your checking account," said Price. "You can use a phone that is not on a wall."

Similarly, online gambling is just using the modern advantages of computers to create the technology to allow betting without having to physically go to the track.

Lawmakers in favor of the bill estimate the satellite gaming would contribute $6 million annually for state revenue. The money would be earmarked to help replace the decrepit track in Lincoln, potentially saving horse racing in the state.