LB 561 is the Nebraska statute that legalised retail sports betting in the state. Signed by Governor Pete Ricketts on May 25, 2021, it set up the framework for the four retail sportsbooks that exist today — but stripped out the original mobile-betting provisions to secure enough votes to pass.
LB 561 authorises retail sports betting at properties tied to licensed Nebraska racetracks (racinos). Up to six venues are technically allowed under the framework — currently four are operational. The law specifies a 20% tax on adjusted gross revenue, with proceeds directed to property tax relief, problem gambling programs, and the state general fund.
The bill that became LB 561 originally included online and mobile sports betting provisions. They were stripped during legislative negotiation to secure enough votes to overcome a filibuster. Multiple subsequent attempts (LB 13, LR 3CA, LR 20CA, LB 421) have failed to add mobile back into the law.
LB 561 prohibits wagers on games involving any Nebraska college or university — Cornhuskers, Bluejays, Mavericks and others. The ban applies even when the in-state team is the visitor in another state's market.
The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission regulates sports betting alongside horse racing and casino gaming. Operators must hold racino licenses, pass background checks, comply with anti-money-laundering rules, and report bet-handling data on a regular basis.