This bill allows municipalities to hold a referendum to decide whether to permit the sale of pari-mutuel wagers on historic horse racing. It introduces a new section, RSA 284:22-c, which outlines the process for towns and cities to place the question on their ballots. The bill specifies that in towns, the question will be included in the annual town meeting warrant, while in cities, it can be placed on the official ballot either by a vote of the legislative body or through a petition signed by 5% of registered voters. A public hearing must be held prior to the vote, and if a majority votes "Yes," licensed entities may offer these wagers. If the question is not approved, it can be revisited in future elections.

Additionally, the bill amends RSA 284:22-b to state that no new licenses for selling pari-mutuel pools on historic horse races will be issued for establishments in municipalities that have not approved such operations, except for those already licensed as of the effective date of this amendment. The bill also allows unincorporated places to permit these wagers through a majority vote of the county delegation after a public hearing. The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 284:22-b
As Amended by the House: 284:22-b