The proposed bill, SB 147-FN, seeks to expand the scope of simulcast horse race betting in New Hampshire by allowing all charitable gaming facilities to sell pari-mutuel pools on simulcast races. Key amendments include the insertion of "LOTTERY AND" into the title of chapter 284, and the addition of a new paragraph in RSA 284:15 that mandates entities wishing to sell these pools to apply for a license from the lottery commission. The bill also repeals and reenacts RSA 284:22-a, which defines eligibility criteria for licensees, including specific conditions for game operator employers and new applicants. Additionally, it modifies existing licensing provisions, payment timelines, and investigation fees, while removing sections related to dog racing simulcasting.

The bill further broadens the eligibility for selling pari-mutuel pools by allowing game operator employers licensed as of May 1, 2020, and those who applied for a license between January 1, 2023, and October 15, 2023, to participate. This change could increase the number of eligible locations from two to potentially 15 game rooms. The fiscal impact is estimated to generate up to $50,000 in revenue for FY 2026 and up to $100,000 for FY 2027 and beyond. However, the Lottery Commission anticipates that while the expansion may enhance accessibility to simulcast wagering, it is unlikely to significantly boost overall wagering amounts or reverse the current decline in simulcast revenue. The effective dates for most provisions are set for January 1, 2026, with the title amendment taking effect on January 2, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 284:15, 284:16, 284:24, 284:12-a