New Hampshire Casinos Get Access to Unlimited VLTs as New Law Approved
New Hampshire casinos have received authorization to install unlimited numbers of video lottery terminals (VLTs) following the enactment of House Bill 2, which was signed into law by Governor Kelly Ayotte on June 30. The legislation takes effect immediately and marks a significant expansion in the scope of legal gambling activities permitted in the state.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Under the new law, 31% of all revenue generated by VLTs will be subject to taxation. The proceeds from this tax will be allocated across three primary areas: the state's general fund, the Governor's Commission on Addiction Treatment and Prevention, and charitable organizations affiliated with licensed casinos. This structure is intended to maintain the charitable gaming framework that has long existed in the state, while allowing for greater technological and operational flexibility among gambling operators.
Related: New Hampshire Considers Adding Slots to Charitable CasinosIn addition to the VLT provisions, HB 2 allows licensed gambling providers to conduct poker and table games tournaments. These events will be taxed at a rate of 5%, and their implementation will depend on subsequent state-level approval.
The law grants immediate permission to install the new gaming options, while the regulatory framework will be finalized in the coming months. Rule-making and operational guidance will be handled by the appropriate state agencies.
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Greater Oversight and New Regulations Forthcoming
The bill's sponsor, Rep. Joe Sweeney, noted that all new forms of gambling approved under HB 2 can be introduced right away, but the full implementation process will continue as state regulators establish specific guidelines. The law includes several structural changes to improve oversight and regulation across the industry.
Among these changes is the unification of all self-exclusion programs in New Hampshire. Players will now have the option to voluntarily ban themselves from all licensed gambling and lottery venues through a single, statewide system. This measure is aimed at enhancing responsible gaming protections and making it easier for individuals seeking to manage problem gambling behavior.
HB 2 also restructures the regulatory authority overseeing gambling in the state. The former New Hampshire Lottery Commission is being rebranded as the New Hampshire Lottery & Gaming Commission. The updated commission will now regulate not only the lottery but also charitable gaming, VLTs, and historical horse racing.
According to Rep. Sweeney, the reforms outlined in HB 2 are designed to ensure that New Hampshire remains competitive with neighboring states while maintaining a transparent and accountable gambling environment. He emphasized that the legislation provides a responsible and forward-looking framework for charitable gaming modernization, supporting economic growth and expanding opportunities for nonprofit organizations to benefit from gaming revenue.
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