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 renaming of chapter 284 to incorporate "LOTTERY AND" and the addition of a new paragraph in RSA 284:15 that permits entities to apply for a license for this purpose. The bill also repeals and reenacts RSA 284:22-a, which defines eligibility criteria for licensees, including requirements for existing game operator employers and new applicants. Furthermore, it modifies existing provisions related to license issuance, payment timelines, and investigation fees, while removing sections pertaining to dog racing simulcasting to focus solely on horse racing.

The bill introduces new eligibility provisions that allow licensed game operator employers, who have been licensed since May 1, 2020, and those who applied for a game operator employer license between January 1, 2023, and October 15, 2023, to engage in simulcast wagering. This change potentially increases the number of eligible locations from two licensed racetracks to up to 15 game rooms. While the fiscal impact is projected to be minimal, with state revenue estimates rising to $50,000 in FY 2026 and $100,000 in FY 2027 and beyond, the Lottery Commission believes that the expansion may slow revenue decline but is unlikely to significantly boost player numbers or overall wagering amounts. The bill aims to modernize the regulatory framework for simulcast horse racing while providing more options for bettors.

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