By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post
Nebraska has collected more than $200,000 in past-due child support from gambling winnings in just three months, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
The collections are the result of the Gambling Winnings Setoff for Outstanding Debt Act, which was approved through Legislative Bill 1317 and signed into law by Governor Jim Pillen in 2024. The program officially began on September 2, 2025.
Under the law, gaming operators are required to withhold a portion of gambling winnings from individuals who owe unpaid debts to the state. Those funds are then sent to the Nebraska Department of Revenue, which distributes the money to several state agencies, including the Department of Revenue, Department of Labor, Department of Motor Vehicles and DHHS.
Within the first 13 weeks of the program, a total of $529,091.47 was distributed among the participating agencies. Of that amount, $215,852.98 was directed to DHHS for the Child Support Enforcement Program.
“This program ensures funds are being used to help support kids across Nebraska,” Governor Jim Pillen said. “Parents have an obligation to their children, and we're guaranteeing their well-being by collecting these winnings."
State officials say the program is already making a meaningful difference for families who rely on child support payments.
“By administering these dollars directly to families, the Child Support Enforcement Program is setting our state's children up for success,” said Shannon Grotrian, director of the Office of Economic Assistance. “It's making an immediate impact on their livelihoods and making sure they have what they need to grow and thrive."
DHHS administers Nebraska’s Child Support Enforcement Program, which works to ensure children receive financial support from both parents. More information about the program is available through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.