DraftKings and FanDuel have each contributed another $3.5 million to the campaign aimed at legalizing online sports betting in Nebraska. Their latest generosity now brings the total raised by supporters to approximately $14.65 million ahead of the November 3 election.
Bigger Stake
The latest donations to Tax Relief Nebraska, the political campaign and advocacy group behind the 2026 ballot measure to legalize online sports betting in the Cornhusker State, give the two sportsbook operators an even bigger financial stake in the ballot campaign.
According to the campaign’s finance filings, both sportsbook operators made their latest contributions during the reporting period ending September 29. This brings each of the companies’ total contribution to the effort to a whopping $7 million, making them the campaign’s largest financial backers.
BetMGM also added $250,000, bringing its total contributions to $500,000, while Fanatics has brought forward $75,000.
Tax Relief Nebraska has been taking advantage of the heavy funding to make its case to voters.
During the latest reporting period, the campaign spent approximately $2.29 million. Much of the money went on media placement, as well as research, legal consulting, creative services, and printed materials.
The group reported having more than $5.42 million in cash available for the final stretch before Election Day.
Opposition group Nebraska Family Alliance reported spending just $2,109 during the same period, largely on postage for a voter guide opposing the proposals.
Two in One Go
Nebraska voters will decide on two related initiatives on November 3. Namely, Initiative Measure 440, which is seeking to amend the state constitution to enable lawmakers to authorize online sports wagering.
Secondly, Initiative Measure 441 would set up the exact framework needed for regulating the market.
Under the proposed system, licensed gaming operators could partner with up to two online sports betting platforms. The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission would be responsible for overseeing regulations, and platform servers would be required to be located in the state.
At the same time, specific restrictions on wagering involving Nebraska college teams and college player proposition bets would remain in place.
Property Tax Relief at the Core
As expected, supporters have made property tax relief a central part of their argument for legalization.
According to Tax Relief Nebraska’s estimates, online sports betting could generate roughly $86.9 million in state tax revenue during its first five years, and around $60.9 million of the amount would be directed toward property tax relief.
The projected figures, of course, are estimates rather than guaranteed revenue. Actual collections would depend on market activity, tax rules, and other factors if voters approve the measures.
Opponents, on the other hand, have raised serious concerns regarding the associated risks of problem gambling, particularly given the convenience of betting through mobile apps.
With millions of dollars available for campaigning, the final weeks before the vote are likely to be important for both sides, with the outcome determining whether Nebraska will finally be able to join the growing number of states that permit online sports betting or whether it will retain its current retail-focused system.