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The legalization of online casinos in New Hampshire has advanced following the Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 104 on a very close vote of 13-11. The next step will see the bill examined by the Senate Finance Committee as to whether it can set up a regulated online casino market.
The proposal will still go through many stages before becoming law. Despite the support from the Senate Finance Committee, the bill needs approval from the entire legislature to be sent to the governor for signing.
If approved, SB 104 will provide an opportunity for citizens of New Hampshire to play online casino games. These include games like blackjack, poker, roulette, baccarat, and craps.
Bill Moves to Finance Committee
The Senate Finance Committee will now examine the proposal and its potential to create a regulated online casino sector in New Hampshire. The committee’s review is expected to focus on the framework set out in the bill and the possible financial effects of the market.
SB 104 includes requirements related to age and identity verification. It would also require geolocation measures to ensure that players are located within New Hampshire while using online casino services.
The proposal includes wagering limits and voluntary self-exclusion provisions. These measures would form part of the rules for licensed operators offering online casino games in the state.
New Hampshire already permits online sports betting through an exclusive arrangement between DraftKings and the New Hampshire Lottery. The state also allows online lottery products.
However, online casino gaming would represent a wider expansion because casino games can be available continuously. Unlike sports betting, these products are not dependent on scheduled sporting events.
SB 104 is not the first attempt to establish an iGaming market in New Hampshire. An earlier version advanced in 2023 before stalling in the House. Another proposal, SB 168, was tabled in 2025.
Revenue Would Support Scholarships
Supporters of SB 104 have pointed to the potential for additional state revenue. Under the proposed terms, around 35% of net online casino profits would be directed to scholarships through the Community College System of New Hampshire.
Another 10% of net online casino profits would go to the New Hampshire Lottery for administrative costs. The proposal’s supporters have cited revenue estimates of about $5 million in the first year.
The projections would rise to around $20 million in the 2nd year and $30 million by the 3rd year. These figures form part of the argument for creating a regulated online casino market.
The proposed allocation would make scholarship funding a major destination for online casino revenue. The New Hampshire Lottery would also receive a share to cover costs related to administering the market.
The Senate Finance Committee will consider the proposal after its narrow Senate approval. The bill’s potential revenue and regulatory requirements are expected to remain central to the discussion.
Charitable Gaming Raises Concerns
The bill has faced opposition from New Hampshire’s charitable gaming industry. The state has around 16 charitable gaming venues, where casino-style games and poker generate funds for nonprofit organizations.
Opponents have warned that online casino gaming could draw customers and revenue away from those facilities. Sen. Bill Gannon said the expansion of online gambling could reduce the funds available for charitable organizations.
Churchill Downs, owner of Chasers Poker Room and Casino in Salem, has also opposed the proposal through lobbyist and former Senate president Peter Bragdon.
The debate takes place as New Hampshire’s land-based gaming sector continues to change. Revo Casino is preparing a major expansion, while lawmakers are considering changes to charitable gaming rules through Senate Bill 542.
The Senate Finance Committee will now review SB 104. Its decision will determine whether the proposed online casino market advances to the next stage of the legislative process.
Source: Gambling News
