New Hampshire Senate Bill SB120

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23
• Report Pass: 1/25/23
• Report Pass: 2/22/23
• Report Pass: 3/9/23
• Report Pass: 3/23/23
• Engrossed: 4/7/23
• Refer: 4/7/23
• Report Pass: 5/10/23
• Report DNP: 5/10/23
• Enrolled: 6/21/23
• Chaptered: 6/27/23
• Passed: 6/27/23

Caption

Relative to charitable gaming license applications, wages, stakes, and bonds.

Impact

If passed, SB120 would modify existing state laws by redefining definitions around operators and games of chance, thus significantly broadening the scope of allowable activities in charitable gaming. The set limits for wagers and stakes are designed to enhance the financial viability of such gaming events, potentially leading to increased participation and a more vibrant fundraising mechanism for charitable purposes. Moreover, it calls for a more structured approach to financial reporting, with charities required to maintain clear records of revenues, expenses, and the amount awarded in prizes.

Summary

Senate Bill 120 relates to charitable gaming within the state, proposing changes to license applications, gaming limits, and financial regulations. Among the significant alterations, the bill raises the maximum wager amount in games of chance from $10 to $50 and increases the maximum amount individuals can spend during poker games from $150 to $2,500. It aims to streamline the licensing process for game operators and charitable organizations involved in the operation of these games. The bill includes provisions for licensee fees, which are adjusted significantly downwards to reduce the burden on charities participating in charitable gaming events.

Contention

Notably, opponents of the bill might argue that increasing the stakes in charitable gaming could lead to more significant financial risks for players and pose ethical concerns regarding gambling. Additionally, while the reduction in licensing fees is intended to encourage charities to participate, there may be worries about the adequacy of regulatory oversight in ensuring the integrity of gaming operations. The bill's procedural amendments could also lead to disagreements over the role of the lottery commission in the oversight and regulation of these newly termed operators and their activities.