New Hampshire Senate Bill SB51

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23
• Report Pass: 1/25/23
• Report Pass: 2/15/23
• Engrossed: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/20/23
• Report Pass: 4/27/23
• Enrolled: 5/23/23
• Vetoed: 6/2/23

Caption

Creating a commission to study charitable gaming and historical horse races and relative to the moratorium on licensed historical horse racing facilities.

Impact

The creation of this study commission is expected to influence state laws by examining how recent legislative changes to charitable gaming laws have affected charities and gaming venues. Additionally, it is anticipated that the commission will assess whether there should be limits on the number of charitable gaming locations and whether there is a need for uniform processes in selecting charities for gaming support. These findings could lead to significant amendments to existing regulations concerning charitable gaming and horse racing.

Summary

Senate Bill 51 aims to establish a commission that will study charitable gaming and the impact of historical horse racing on charitable revenues. The bill includes an appropriation of $250,000 to the lottery commission to facilitate this study. It also amends the current moratorium on licenses for historical horse racing facilities, which is currently set to expire on July 1, 2024, extending it until July 1, 2026. This extension is expected to be evaluated in light of the findings from the study commission.

Contention

Notable points of contention likely revolve around the implications of extending the moratorium on historical horse racing licenses, which some stakeholders may feel hampers the growth of charitable organizations that benefit from such gaming activities. Proponents may argue that this study commission ensures that all voices are heard and can lead to well-informed recommendations for policy adjustments. Conversely, critics may express concerns regarding the potential for reduced revenues for charities and the overall effectiveness of the historical horse racing model in supporting charitable causes.