New Hampshire lawmakers' strategy to enhance non-profit funding
Lawmakers in the Concord State House are considering a switch from Historical Horse Racing (HHR) machines to traditional slot machines in New Hampshire’s 14 charitable gaming casinos. Local media outlet reported, Governor Kelly Ayotte’s proposal aims to expand gaming in the state to increase funding for non-profits and other beneficiaries of casino revenue. While it may seem straightforward, the decision is complex and involves careful deliberation.
Governor Kelly Ayotte’s push for iGaming expansion
New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte has proposed replacing outdated historical horse racing (HHR) machines with more efficient and popular slot machines in charitable casinos.
Governor Ayotte has urged the General Court to pass legislation authorising slot machines, emphasising the financial benefits for both the state and non-profits. The proposal aims to address concerns from charities struggling to secure casino dates while ensuring the expansion includes video lottery terminals.
Lawmakers have been debating the introduction of slot machines for several months, highlighting the ongoing discussion around gaming expansion in New Hampshire.
Current iGaming system in New Hampshire
Under current law, casinos can support up to two charitable causes daily, allocating 35 percent of the gross gaming revenue (GGR) from table games and historical horse racing (HHR) terminals to non-profits. The state receives 25 percent, while casinos retain the remaining 40 percent. Each non-profit can partner with a casino for only 10 days a year, supporting around 800 charities annually, though smaller groups often struggle to secure dates.
In 2024, the five Revo Casino locations distributed over $15 million to approximately 400 non-profits. In March alone, New Hampshire’s table games and HHR machines generated substantial revenue: the state collected $5.3 million, charities received $5.7 million, and casino operators earned $25.6 million, according to the New Hampshire Lottery Commission. Charities included in the casino rotation report significant benefits, with Jane Goodman, executive director of the Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter, highlighting the impact of charitable gaming funds.
In June 2023, then-Governor Chris Sununu signed legislation increasing the maximum table game bet from $10 to $50 and raising the amount a player could lose during a single game from $150 to $2,500.
Legislative voices and mixed opinions
Lawmakers in New Hampshire are divided on the proposal to replace historical horse racing (HHR) machines with slot machines in charitable casinos.
Rep. Mary Murphy supports the idea but stresses the need for a cautious approach and increased funding for social safeguards. She noted that if HHR machines posed issues, slot machines might do the same. Murphy believes the proposal is beneficial for both the state and charities but prefers boosting state income by growing local businesses.
Murphy stated, “If HHR was going to cause a problem, slot machines would probably have the same effect. But it’s a win-win for the state and for charities. We’re not in support of revenue at the expense of creating a bunch of social problems for the state.”
Rep. Thomas Schamberg expressed cautious optimism after touring The Nash Casino, saying it seems to have the right approach. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring smaller non-profits, which haven’t yet benefited from the casino’s donations, are treated fairly. “We’re trying to support our less fortunate and our non-profits in this state,” Schamberg said.
Potential revenue boost
Ayotte’s budget plan seeks legislative approval to introduce slot machines and increase the state’s revenue share to 30 percent, potentially generating an additional $70 million annually for non-profits and $128 million in total state revenue by the second budget cycle.
In March 2025, charitable gaming generated significant revenue: the state collected $5.3 million, charities received $5.7 million, and casino operators earned $25.6 million, according to the New Hampshire Lottery Commission. Slot machines and HHR terminals appear similar to casual players, but their internal mechanisms differ, and the broader social implications of expanded gambling remain a key concern for lawmakers.
