Authorizing municipalities to hold a referendum to rescind the licenses of historic horse racing facilities.
The bill is expected to have a considerable impact on existing historic horse racing establishments, particularly if multiple municipalities choose to prohibit pari-mutuel wagering. Current operations would be allowed to continue until their licenses expire, but they would not be able to renew them once they've been rescinded by local vote. This approach introduces uncertainty for business operators regarding the future of their licenses, which may deter investment in the gaming industry within New Hampshire. Additionally, the financial implications for the state's Lottery Fund and Education Trust Fund are undetermined, particularly as revenues from these racing wagers contribute significantly to state coffers.
House Bill 668 aims to authorize municipalities in New Hampshire to hold referendums on whether to prohibit the sale of pari-mutuel wagers on historic horse racing within their borders. This legislation is significant as it provides local governments the power to govern an increasingly contentious area of gambling, allowing constituents to directly influence the presence of these operations in their communities. If enacted, the outcome of such referendums could alter the landscape of gambling facilities in the state, especially those associated with historic horse racing.
Debate surrounding HB 668 centers on local autonomy versus the interests of the gambling industry. Proponents of the bill argue that it empowers local communities to reflect their values and concerns regarding gambling activities. They posit that municipalities should have the right to control what happens within their jurisdictions, particularly concerning activities they deem socially undesirable. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about the potential loss of revenue from local racing establishments, arguing that prohibiting these wagers could harm economic performance and lead to job losses in the gambling sector.