A newly formed group, Save Nebraska Sports, has initiated a campaign against two online sports betting measures that will be on the ballot in Nebraska this November. They argue that the proposed tax relief for property owners would not adequately compensate for the potential financial burdens on residents and student athletes.
Nate Grasz, the Executive Director of the Nebraska Family Alliance, expressed concerns that online betting platforms are prioritizing profits over the well-being of families, businesses, fans, and student athletes. “They are seeking to make a profit at the expense of Nebraska families, businesses, fans, and student athletes,” Grasz stated.
Proponents of the ballot measures contend that legalizing online sports betting could lead to increased revenue, which would help provide property tax relief. However, the coalition opposing these measures believes that the anticipated relief will be minimal.
State Auditor Mike Foley emphasized that the proposed tax relief would require Nebraskans to lose more money through betting than they would gain back. “As state auditor, I feel an obligation to inform the cities that you’re being misled by a false promise of property tax relief,” Foley remarked, highlighting the sensitivity of this issue.
State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg noted that the projected $87 million in property tax relief would necessitate Nebraskans losing over $435 million in bets. He also cautioned that the legalization of online betting would lead to an increase in gambling-related advertisements and notifications, impacting the community at large. “It will follow us onto our phones through apps, advertisements, promotions, notifications, day and night,” Spellerberg warned, stressing the implications for future generations.
At the State Capitol, speakers also referenced recent NCAA surveys revealing that 36% of male basketball players have suffered from abuse on social media.
Grasz shared a statement from former Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne, who was unable to attend, regarding the pressures student athletes face when betting is linked to their performance. “As a coach, I saw firsthand the immense pressure student athletes face,” Grasz read. “Some of the harshest criticism athletes receive is not for losing, but for failing to beat a point spread or achieve specific performance metrics. Online sports gambling transforms athletic competitions into gambling ventures, risking the futures of young athletes.”