Nebraska Administrative Code Topic - RACING COMMISSION, STATE
Nebraska Administrative Code – Racing Commission, State
The Nebraska Racing Commission is the state authority that regulates horse racing, greyhound racing (where permitted), and pari-mutuel wagering in Nebraska. Its rules are codified in the Nebraska Administrative Code (NAC), Title 11, Chapter 1–17, focusing on licensing, race conduct, wagering, and penalties.
1. Purpose of the Racing Commission
The Commission’s primary objectives are to:
Regulate and supervise racing events to ensure fair play.
License and monitor participants, including owners, trainers, jockeys, and veterinarians.
Ensure integrity of betting and wagering systems.
Protect the welfare of racing animals.
Investigate rule violations and enforce penalties.
2. Key Areas Covered by the NAC – Racing Commission
A. Licensing and Registration
All participants in racing (horses, owners, trainers, jockeys) must be licensed annually.
Background checks are conducted to prevent criminal or unethical participation.
Categories of licenses include:
Owner/Trainer license
Jockey/Driver license
Racing Official license
Veterinarian license
B. Conduct of Races
The NAC sets standards for racetrack operations, including:
Track safety
Racing surface requirements
Race scheduling and recordkeeping
Rules specify race formats, distances, and starting procedures.
C. Pari-Mutuel Wagering
Defines how betting pools are managed, including:
Tote board reporting
Payout procedures for win, place, show, exacta, trifecta, and daily double wagers
Minimum and maximum wager limits
D. Animal Welfare and Medication
Strict drug testing protocols for horses and greyhounds.
Prohibits performance-enhancing drugs or illegal medications.
Veterinary inspections are mandatory before and after races.
E. Investigations and Penalties
The Commission can investigate rule violations, race fixing, or animal cruelty.
Penalties may include:
Fines
Suspension of license
Disqualification of horses or drivers
Revocation of wagering privileges
F. Recordkeeping and Reporting
Racetracks must submit:
Daily race results
Wagering reports
Medication reports for review by the Commission
3. Enforcement and Compliance
Commission Authority
The Commission can inspect tracks, review records, and conduct hearings.
Has authority to suspend, revoke, or impose fines for violations.
Hearing Process
Licensees or participants can appeal penalties through a formal administrative hearing.
Decisions are binding unless appealed to a state court.
Coordination with Law Enforcement
Works with state police and investigators to enforce anti-gambling or animal welfare laws.
4. Examples of Rules Under NAC – Racing Commission
Jockey Conduct Rule
A jockey cannot interfere with another horse or driver intentionally.
Violations may result in race disqualification and suspension.
Horse Medication Rule
Prohibits banned substances within 24 hours of racing.
Positive drug tests result in fines, suspension, and disqualification.
Track Safety Rule
Tracks must maintain safe surfaces and emergency medical teams.
Non-compliance can suspend race dates until corrected.
Betting Compliance Rule
Racetracks must report all wagers accurately.
Failure to comply can result in revocation of betting licenses.
5. Summary
The Nebraska Racing Commission NAC regulates all aspects of horse and greyhound racing in Nebraska.
Key focus areas:
Licensing of participants
Conduct of races and wagering
Animal welfare and drug testing
Investigations, penalties, and appeals
Ensures fair racing, ethical practices, and public trust in betting.
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