Gambling Votes in the US Midterm Elections: Nebraska, Virginia, Indiana

As the US midterm elections proceed, several votes affecting the gambling industry are drawing attention. In Nebraska, voters will decide on Proposals 440 and 441, which aim to legalize online sports betting in the state. Both proposals must be approved together.

Proposal 440 is a constitutional amendment that would allow operators linked to a licensed racetrack to offer online sports betting. Proposal 441 would give the Nebraska Lottery and Gaming Commission the authority to regulate and oversee this market. The existing racetrack-centered structure will be preserved. Licensed tracks will be able to form partnerships with companies such as BetMGM or DraftKings. Each operator would be allowed up to two skins, and servers would be required to be located in Nebraska. The commission is asked to set the relevant rules by June 1, 2027.

The draft text includes responsible gambling controls and requires a check for state debts before winnings are paid out. At least four major US betting companies, including BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel and Fanatics, support Proposal 441. Opponents, however, point to the risk of addiction. Les Bernal of the Stop Predatory Gambling group argued that legalization would be "an epic policy failure." According to Bernal, addiction rates are rising in states where gambling is legal, and social harms far outweigh the benefits. Both sides agree on one point: whether legalization will help fight the illegal market. Supporters argue that legalization will give law enforcement the tools to suppress the black market. Opponents say legalization will increase the total number of people who gamble.

Virginia will hold two votes with a narrower scope. Voters in the town of Pulaski and in Amherst County will decide whether pari-mutuel betting will be allowed at satellite facilities under state law. In Indiana, voters in three counties will determine which of them may apply for a license for a new land-based casino.