NORTH PLATTE- LB876, which won 38-3 final approval in the Legislature, effectively puts new racetracks and associated casinos — including proposals for North Platte, Ogallala, Gering and Kimball — on hold while market and socioeconomic studies take place.

The bill signed by Gov. Pete Ricketts directs the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission to complete the studies “as soon as practicable” but no later than Jan. 1, 2025. Similar studies would be required every five years.

Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte said he considers LB876 “a way to keep the process moving forward” while heading off calls for a five- to seven-year moratorium on any new tracks.

“I am still not completely satisfied with the provisions in LB876 and will continue to work to fast-track North Platte’s proposed project,” he said. “I think there is a way to grow the racing industry responsibly while shortening the timeline for western Nebraska applications.”

Nebraska’s six existing horse tracks, meanwhile, are able to seek casino licenses once the Racing and Gaming Commission gets long-awaited regulations in place.

At that point, the six tracks — in Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island, Columbus, South Sioux City and Hastings — are expected in varying degrees to move forward with construction of new facilities for casino operations.

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