New Hampshire Senate Bill SB104

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Report Pass: 3/22/23
• Engrossed: 4/7/23
• Refer: 4/7/23
• Report DNP: 4/27/23

Caption

To regulate online gambling and direct net proceeds to a community college education scholarship fund.

Impact

One of the hallmark provisions of SB104 is the creation of a Community College Scholarship Fund, which is supported by the net proceeds generated from online gambling activities. The revenue collected from online gaming is expected to fund scholarships for residents attending community colleges in New Hampshire, thereby supporting higher education. The projected fiscal impacts estimate significant revenue growth over the coming years, with expectations of contributing up to $31.5 million annually to the scholarship fund by fiscal year 2026.

Summary

SB104 is a legislative act aimed at regulating online gambling activities, specifically through the establishment of an online gaming framework within New Hampshire. The bill authorizes the conducting of various casino games over the internet, referred to as iGaming, under the supervision of the New Hampshire Lottery Commission. It also aims to ensure strict adherence to financial accountability and compliance for all parties involved in online wagering. This bill establishes the operational rules for online gaming, including the criteria for agents conducting gambling and measures for preventing underage betting.

Contention

While supporters argue that this legislation could enhance financial resources for education and provide a regulated environment for online gambling, there are concerns regarding potential gambling addiction and the social implications of expanding gambling access. Critics of the bill have raised issues about the hastened expansion of gambling in the state and the effectiveness of the provisions intended to manage problem gambling. The bill's success will largely depend on the implementation and operational effectiveness of the associated regulatory measures.