From Charitable to Commercial: A Gambling Revolution
New Hampshire is preparing for a seismic shift in its gambling laws. The House Finance Committee recently approved legislation that would replace historic horse racing machines with modern slot-style video lottery terminals (VLTs). In addition, the state may lift its long-standing $50 bet limit on table games.
The move is driven by revenue potential: VLTs could bring in $128 million annually for the state and $70 million for nonprofits. This change would significantly modernize New Hampshire’s charitable gaming model — once a niche setup, now trending toward a billion-dollar industry.
Balancing Growth with Responsibility
However, the rise in problem gambling calls into question whether the state is moving too fast. Calls to the NH Council on Problem Gambling have doubled in just three years. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 83 aims to create a universal exclusion list to help individuals who want to avoid gambling altogether — a small but meaningful step in safeguarding mental health.
Personal Perspective
New Hampshire’s expansion is a textbook case of innovation outpacing regulation. While the revenue gains are tempting, the state should not repeat the mistakes of others by underfunding addiction services. A parallel investment in treatment and prevention must be non-negotiable.
Additional Insight
The shift from historic racing to modern slots mirrors national trends where states seek rapid revenue boosts through modernization. However, New Hampshire’s unique charitable gaming framework means a delicate balance must be maintained — ensuring nonprofits benefit without turning them into inadvertent enablers of problem gambling. Policymakers should be prepared to reassess and readjust every fiscal cycle.
