A recent study on casino expansion led lawmakers to determine that more studies are needed
The Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission decided Friday that it needs more information before deciding whether several cities, including Fremont, will join the state’s six racetracks in offering casino gaming. The decision also delays the debate regarding moving a racing license from a quarterhorse track in Hastings to a new racetrack/casino proposed in Ogallala.
Existing racetracks in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, Columbus, South Sioux City and Hastings are the only ones permitted to offer casino gaming after Nebraskans voted to allow casinos in 2020. However, Nebraska lawmakers passed a bill only to consider additional locations after the Racing and Gaming Commission completes a market/economic study to determine if additional “racinos” (a racetrack with a casino) can be permitted without affecting existing operations.
On Friday, several commission members were concerned about whether the $48,000 market study conducted by The Innovation Group met the conditions mandated by the Legislature. This led to the commission passing a 7-0 motion requiring a committee to review the Legislature’s conditions before deciding whether the current study should be extended or if a new one is needed.
The Innovation Group’s Tom Zitt stated to the commission that because there are limited racing days in Nebraska, it wasn’t possible to fully assess the effect of additional racinos on existing facilities. Racetrack officials criticized The Innovation Group for not reaching out or visiting any racetracks to pursue the information needed for the analysis.
Attorney for the Fremont group, David Bracht, says the city is well positioned for a new racino, which would positively impact the community. The commission took no further action after the Fremont presentation and said it couldn’t rule on any new racinos until the research study was extended or done over.
Emma Rodriguez is the Proofreader at the Big Blind, with seven years of experience and five years in online gambling. She plays a crucial role in maintaining content quality by ensuring error-free, reader-friendly information about the gambling industry.
