Nebraska Supreme Court hears arguments over gaming initiative

Thursday, August 28, 2014

An artist's rendering, from 2012, that shows a proposed casino at the former Atokad racetrack in South Sioux City, Nebraska. The Winnebago Tribe plans to open an events center named Atokad Park at the site.

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The Nebraska Supreme Court heard arguments on Wednesday in a dispute over a gaming referendum on the November ballot.

The Horse Race Wagering Amendment authorizes electronic betting on historical horse races. A group called Gambling with the Good Life claims the language in the referendum violates the Nebraska constitution by asking voters to answer more than one question on the ballot.

“We’re not saying don’t let them vote,” Pat Loontjer, the director of the group, told The Omaha World-Herald after the hearing. “We’re just saying ask an honest question.”

The Winnebago Tribe supports the amendment. If it passes, Ho-Chunk Inc, the tribe's economic development corporation, plans to open a $30 million gaming facility at a former racetrack called Atokad Downs.

Get the Story:
Horse-racing measure now in Nebraska court's hands (AP 8/27)
Neb. Supreme Court Hears Arguments Over Amendment Language (NTV 8/28)
Nebraska Supreme Court takes reins in horse race issue, hears oral arguments (The Omaha World-Herald 8/28) Related Stories:
Nebraska Supreme Court to hear lawsuit over gaming initiative (08/07)