Nebraska’s Online Gambling Laws
The online gambling industry in this state is regulated by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission (NRGC). This regulatory body was established through LB 561, a bill adopted to reform the gambling policies in the state. The commission will also be in charge of overseeing online casinos if legislators decide to legalize online gambling.
According to Nebraska’s gambling laws and regulations, both poker sites and e-casinos are illegal. The only platforms on which gamblers can play legitimate Internet casino games are sweepstakes casino sites. Although they don’t allow for real winnings, they still offer games like blackjack, bingo, and authentic slots.
Despite the ban, Nebraskans are allowed to use offshore casino platforms to play for real money or bonuses. However, it is recommended that players approach any site offering real money jackpots and bonuses with caution.
Some offshore online casino platforms allow Nebraskans to play on a regular basis on their platforms. However, most of them have enforced the ban issued by the state laws. This has seen players who want to play bingo or online slot machines receive a “Geolocation Error” message when trying to play.
How does Nebraska Regulate Gambling?
Nebraska does not condone gambling, especially online. As per state laws, engaging in any form of gambling exceeding a bet amount of $300 is seen as a second-degree promotion of gambling. If the bet amount is less than $300, then it is seen as a third-degree promotion of gambling. All these offenses are punishable under the state laws.
A second-degree promotion of gambling is classified under Class II misdemeanor, while a third-degree promotion is under Class IV misdemeanor. Class II misdemeanor attracts a punishment of a fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in jail or both. Class IV misdemeanor attracts a $500 fine.
Nebraska Revised Statutes, Section 2-1201 et seq, Section 28-1101 et seq, and Section 9-201 et seq, cover most matters related to betting play. The Nebraska Gaming Commission is responsible for regulating the operation of legal betting locations like horse racing tracks. They also license gambling establishments that some horse racing clubs offer on-site.
In terms of age regulation, the state only allows betting on any games of chance, from slots to bingo, for individuals aged 21 years and above. This simply means that, just like other states, it prohibits betting among children and young adults below the legal age.
