The proposed bill, SB 168-FN-LOCAL, establishes a regulatory framework for online gambling in New Hampshire, creating a new fund specifically for reimbursing municipalities for tax exemptions granted to elderly, disabled, blind, and deaf individuals. This fund, known as the Elderly, Disabled, Blind, and Deaf Exemption Reimbursement Fund (EDBDER Fund), will be financed through fees collected from online gambling activities. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Revenue Administration in managing the fund, including specific reporting and payment timelines. Additionally, the bill introduces RSA 287-J, which defines online gaming and sets forth licensing requirements for online gaming operators, including age verification and identity checks to ensure compliance with state laws.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that online gaming operators submit various reports and plans for approval before conducting online wagering, including security measures and responsible gaming plans. It prohibits operators from accepting wagers from individuals outside the state or from jurisdictions sanctioned by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). The bill also amends RSA 6:12 to include funds deposited in the EDBDER Fund and establishes a revenue-sharing framework requiring operators to allocate 45% of gross online gaming revenue to various state funds, including the Lottery Fund and the General Fund. The effective date for these regulations is set for January 1, 2026, with an anticipated annual revenue increase of approximately $36.2 million starting in FY 2027. However, concerns have been raised regarding potential constitutional issues related to the diversion of lottery revenues from educational purposes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 647:2, 6:12