Nebraska Casino Gamblers Who Owe Child Support, Other Debts Have Winnings Seized
Nebraska’s casinos are playing a key role in recovering unpaid debts across the state. Since September 2025, a new law has allowed winnings to be withheld from gamblers who owe money. The measure has already collected over half a million dollars for state agencies and child support payments.
The Gambling Winnings Setoff for Outstanding Debt Act came into force on 2 September 2025. Under the law, casinos must check if winners have outstanding debts before releasing their payouts. Over $500,000 has since been recovered, with more than $215,000 going towards overdue child support.
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) confirmed that the program has helped secure funds for various unpaid obligations. The state’s five commercial casinos—WarHorse Casino Lincoln, Grand Island Casino Resort, Harrah’s Columbus NE Racing & Casino, WarHorse Casino Omaha, and Lake Mac Casino Resort—are all participating in the scheme. Casinos in Nebraska also contribute to lowering property taxes. By law, 20% of their gross revenue goes to the state, with 70% of that amount funneled into the Property Tax Credit Cash Fund. Last year, a homeowner with a property valued at $200,000 saved around $250 on their tax bill because of this funding. The state’s casino industry itself was approved by voters in 2020. Initiative 430 passed with 65% support, paving the way for the current system of debt recovery and tax relief.
The new law has already proven effective in recovering debts while easing financial pressure on homeowners. With casinos continuing to withhold winnings from those with unpaid obligations, the state expects further collections in the coming years. The funds will keep supporting child support payments and other outstanding liabilities.
