While casino gambling revenue in Nebraska continues to grow, the financial picture for the Nebraska Lottery, operated by the state’s Department of Revenue, is less rosy.
Nebraska Lottery sales declined by more than 16% in the fiscal year ending in July 2025, according to a report released Monday by the state auditor’s office. The $36 million drop in sales also resulted in a nearly $10 million decline in the lottery’s transfers to beneficiary funds.
The lottery beneficiaries are outlined in a constitutional amendment that was approved by Nebraska voters in 2004.
Lottery proceeds are distributed among the Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund (44.5%), the Nebraska State Fair Board (10%), legislatively directed education programs (44.5%) and the Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund ($500,000+1%).
