New Hampshire Senator Places Another Casino Bill on the Table

The sale of a prime location for constructing a casino, Rockingham Park this past year has not prevented lawmakers’ in their attempts to expand upon gambling within New Hampshire.

Senator Lou D’Allesandro is the man behind a bill this current year which would allow two casinos to be constructed within the state.  Although, the Senator did state in a hearing that was public this past Tuesday that he does not know of any cities or towns that are having discussions with any potential developers.

Within the past bills that were concerning casinos did in fact draw very large crowds, this past Tuesday drew far fewer residents and lobbyist in order to testify.  Some of the members of the house committee who previously backed casino bills did voice many concerns over the fact that there were no clear construction sites emerging.

Senate Bill 242, the casino bill has made it way clear within the Senate with a 13-10 vote in favor of the bill, yet it will still face its toughest hurdle yet within the House.  This chamber has never passed a bill regarding a casino, even though supporters of the bill argue that having a casino would in fact boost state revenue.  On the other hand critics argue that it would lead to just another problem with addiction as well as taking business away from local theaters and restaurants.

Senate Bill 242 which is on the table would allow for a large casino that would be able to house approximately 3,500 slot machines as well as 160 table games, and a smaller casino which would house 1,500 slot machines and only 80 table games.

Each of these establishments would have to pay a first time licensing fee and after that hand over a stated percentage of all revenues to the state.  The state than would distribute the revenue among the hosting community, the neighboring towns as well as a percent to a fund for problem gambling.