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LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission is launching a statewide portal for members of the public to voluntarily exclude themselves from participating in gaming activities in Nebraska. The portal will include the Nebraska voluntary self-exclusion program and other problem gaming resources.

Applicants can prevent themselves from being allowed into Nebraska casinos for a year, a few years, or even a lifetime.

Mike Sciandra works at Choices Treatment Center, which helps problem gamblers like he once was. Sciandra said he’s applied for self-exclusion programs in other states and is glad it’s coming to Nebraska.

“For something new coming to Nebraska, like casino gambling, it’s going to be exciting for many people, and for the 90% plus people who can handle that, it’s great,” Sciandra said. “We’ve actually had past clients who have reached out to us as well who are like, ‘hey, I really don’t want this temptation in my life. What can you do to help me with this?’”

The Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission encourages the public to exercise responsible gambling practices and to learn the signs of problem gaming ahead of full casino operations. The development of the Nebraska voluntary self-exclusion program is another step to enhancing the industry’s best practices to prevent problem gambling throughout the state.

“We recognize the excitement and anticipation for expanded gaming in Nebraska,” said Nebraska Racing and Gaming Executive Director Tom Sage. “Having mechanisms in place to mitigate the effects of harmful problem gaming is key to regulating a professional gaming industry. We encourage everyone to learn the signs of problem gambling and use the voluntary self-exclusion program if you or a loved one has an addiction.”

The portal is available at https://racingcommission.nebraska.gov/responsible-gaming