LINCOLN- A measure billed as strengthening oversight of the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission won quick, first-round advancement Monday. State Sen. John Lowe, who introduced LB839, said the seven-member commission has seen turmoil lately. That includes the resignation of its executive director, questions about the thoroughness of a gaming market study and controversy over the purchase of 10 assault-style rifles for its investigators.

Under the bill, the governor, who appoints members of the commission, would have the power to remove commissioners “for cause.” New executive directors hired by the commission would be subject to approval by the governor. One senator, Danielle Conrad, said that while the commission had seen some “growing pains,” she wasn’t a fan of ceding oversight from the Legislature to the executive branch.

The bill advanced from first-round debate Monday on a 39-0 vote after a brief floor debate. The measure comes as the commission is ramping up to regulate gambling casinos in the state, which were legalized by voters in 2020. The first temporary casino was opened in September 2022 in Lincoln.

For the full article click HERE