Slots or Not? Will "Instant Gaming" Come to Nebraska?
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Nebraska lawmakers are looking at a bill that would allow people to bet on old horse races. Some say that would be unconstitutional. Video by kmtv.com
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Live horse races, from around the country. Betting at Horsemen's Park, is okay.
Old races, from anywhere. Betting at Horsemen's Park, not so fast!
Some Nebraskans want historic races to bet on. It's called "Instant Gaming". You can see the race, but here's the catch, you don't the horse, or the jockey.
"They're slots. If it walks like a duck, talks like a duck it's a duck. Looks like a slot machine acts like a slot machine, and it's unconstitutional", says Pat Lootnjer with Gambling with the Good Life.
Players can make up to one thousand bets an hour, they don't have to watch the whole race, just jump to the finish line.
"We've not opposed horse racing, but unfortunately we will stand up when they want to expand it and turn it into casinos", adds Lootnjer.
A bill being considered by the state legislature, would allow these instant gaming machines in Nebraska.
Supporters at Horsemen's Park in Omaha, don't see the problem.
"You know maybe they mimic the slot machine, but essentially what it is, is Para-Mutuel horse racing, what we already have and what you see on the screens right now", says General Manager with Horsemen's Park Greg Hosch.
At Horsemen's Park they say the state has a long history of horse racing, and encourage lawmakers to think long-term.
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