Nebraska Empowers Children Through Gambling Revenue Contributions

Introduction to Nebraska’s Gambling Winnings Program

Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has successfully collected over $500,000 within the initial three months under a new initiative called the Gambling Winnings Setoff for Outstanding Debt Act. This program is designed to reclaim debts owed to the state by diverting a portion of gambling winnings.

Supporting Children’s Welfare

Of the total funds collected, more than $200,000 was specifically allocated to address overdue child support payments. These debts represent child support that has not been paid on time and has accumulated over a period.

The program was established following the passage of Legislative Bill 1317, which was signed into law by Governor Jim Pillen last year. Governor Pillen emphasized that the purpose of this initiative is to ensure that the recovered monies directly benefit children throughout Nebraska.

He stated that parents have clear responsibilities toward their children, and this program helps uphold those responsibilities by using gambling winnings to provide financial support where it is due.

Launching the Initiative to Benefit Nebraska’s Children

The implementation of the fund collection began on September 2, allowing gambling venue operators in the state to withhold a portion of winnings from individuals with outstanding state debts. These withheld amounts are then transferred to the Department of Revenue (DOR).

After collection, the funds are distributed among various state agencies, including the Department of Labor, Department of Motor Vehicles, DHHS, and the Department of Revenue itself.

Within the first 13 weeks, the combined total of money directed to these agencies reached nearly $530,000. Specifically, DHHS received $215,852.98 to support its Child Support Enforcement Program.

Shannon Grotrian, the director of the Office of Economic Assistance, expressed that channeling these funds directly to families ensures that Nebraska’s children have a stronger foundation for success. She highlighted the immediate positive effects this financial support has on children’s quality of life, helping them receive the resources they need to flourish.

Overview of Gambling Revenues in Nebraska

Data up to the end of October indicate that Nebraska’s five racetrack casinos collectively generated nearly $212 million in revenue, a significant increase of $66 million compared to the previous year. Additionally, the racetracks earned about $36.5 million from horse racing activities during the first ten months, closely mirroring the highest full-year earnings of $37.7 million.