A Bill seeking to legalize online casinos in New Hampshire passed the Senate on a tight 12-11 vote, keeping hope alive for supporters of gambling expansion in the state.
SB 104, put forward by Rep. Tim Lang, was initially rejected by lawmakers 11-12 on second reading on March 30. But Senate President Jeb Bradley came to the rescue and initiated a second vote which prompted Senator Kevin Avard to switch sides to send the Bill to the House.
Online Gaming Won’t Cannibalize Charitable Gaming Operations
Among the key points taken up during the Senate floor debate is the potential cannibalization of land-based casinos that contribute a portion of their revenue to various charities in New Hampshire.
Lang defended his Bill, saying sports betting which is now legal in the state, is also conducted online and has not had any significant impact on charitable gaming revenue.
SB 104 would direct proceeds of online gaming to a community college scholarship fund.
Another Bill sponsored by Sen. Lang, SB 120, which would raise revenues generated by charitable gaming facilities by increasing the betting, tournament buy-in, and table stake limits, also advanced to the House.
House Passage More Challenging
It’s the first time this year that an online casino Bill made it through a legislative body in New Hampshire. Passing the House would be more challenging, said Lang, but he remains optimistic his Bill would get enough support.