New Hampshire's Online Casino Bill Moves to Next Legislative Challenge
The New Hampshire Senate has narrowly advanced SB 104, legalizing online casino gaming, with a 13-11 vote that now sends the bill to the Senate Finance Committee for further consideration. While the proposal has gained some momentum, its future remains uncertain as it heads into a pivotal review.
According to reports from Action Network, this voting session took place on September 28. The next phase will reveal whether there is enough legislative support to keep the proposal alive in the state legislative process.
Understanding SB 104's Provisions
If passed, SB 104 would regulate online casino games including blackjack, poker, roulette, baccarat, and craps. The bill outlines guidelines such as age verification, identity checks, geolocation measures, wagering caps, and options for voluntary self-exclusion to enhance player protection.
A critical argument from supporters hinges on the bill's funding structure. It proposes that roughly 35% of net profits would be allocated to scholarships within the Community College System of New Hampshire, while about 10% would support the administrative costs of the New Hampshire Lottery. Financial forecasts suggest that online casino gaming could generate $5 million in its first year, followed by $20 million the next year and $30 million by the third year. Proponents, including Senate President Jeb Bradley and Senate Ways and Means Chairman Tim Lang, believe regulated online gambling could provide significant public funding and offer a legal framework compared to unlicensed gambling platforms. State approaches similar to Alberta's online gambling regulations may offer insights into best practices for participant security.
Concerns Over Charitable Gaming
The Senate's progress on SB 104 follows previous legislative attempts that failed to pass. An earlier version of SB 104 progressed through the Senate in 2023 but faced an immediate setback in the House Ways and Means Committee, which unanimously recommended placing it on hold. Additionally, a proposal for SB 168 introduced in 2025 was similarly shelved.
The ongoing debate centers around the possibility of generating revenue through online gambling without jeopardizing New Hampshire's charitable casino industry, which currently encompasses about 16 facilities that support nonprofit organizations. Opponents of SB 104, including State Senator Bill Gannon, have expressed concerns that online gambling could siphon off customers and revenue from these charitable venues, potentially undermining their funding. Churchill Downs, which operates Chasers Poker Room and Casino in Salem, has also publicly opposed this legislation, advocating for traditional gaming interests through lobbyist Peter Bragdon. This issue reflects similar discussions in other regions contemplating new gambling legislation, such as efforts in Ohio.
A Crucial Review Ahead
Currently, New Hampshire permits both online and retail sports betting under an exclusive contract with DraftKings, alongside online lottery offerings and approved charitable gaming including poker and table games. However, online casino gaming remains illegal.
The continuous nature of casino games, contrasted with the event-based nature of sports betting, raises additional questions regarding responsible-gaming measures and the effects on physical casino establishments. Ongoing discussions in Rhode Island about modifying sports gambling regulations further illustrate the complexities state lawmakers face.
The Finance Committee will evaluate various aspects, including projected revenues, regulatory expenses, funding for scholarships, consumer safeguards, and the potential effects on charitable gaming organizations. Even if the Finance Committee supports SB 104, the bill will still require additional approval from the Senate and the New Hampshire House, along with the governor's endorsement.
The narrow 13-11 vote reflects some level of legislative support, but with little room for error. The outcome of the Finance Committee's review will be a crucial determinant of whether this latest attempt at legalizing online casino gaming can advance beyond the Senate and face a broader legislative evaluation.
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