In 2024, New Hampshire’s gaming industry experienced significant transformations, marked by regulatory changes, casino developments, and notable revenue growth. These developments have reshaped the state’s gaming landscape, impacting stakeholders from casino operators to charitable organizations.
The year began with the closure of the Concord Casino, one of the state’s 14 gaming venues. This closure intensified competition among charities and nonprofits for partnerships with the remaining casinos, as these organizations rely on such collaborations for funding through charitable gaming revenues.
In response to the evolving gaming environment, lawmakers introduced several bills aimed at refining the relationship between casinos and charitable organizations. One notable proposal sought to cap the annual revenue any single nonprofit or charity could receive from casino partnerships. This measure aimed to distribute gaming proceeds more equitably among a broader range of charitable organizations.
Additionally, the New Hampshire House passed a bill prohibiting casinos from charging rent to charities. This legislation was designed to ensure that a more substantial portion of gaming revenues directly benefits charitable causes, rather than being offset by operational expenses imposed by casino operators.
Despite discussions around expanding gaming options, efforts to introduce online casino legislation were postponed. Senator Tim Lang, who had previously indicated plans to file an online casino bill for 2024, announced that procedural motions in the House prevented the introduction of such legislation until 2025.
The state’s gaming market witnessed both contractions and expansions. While the Concord Casino ceased operations, new venues emerged to fill the void and cater to the growing demand for gaming entertainment.
In December 2024, the Revo Casino and Social House opened in Lebanon, becoming the latest addition to New Hampshire’s gaming establishments. Owned by a California-based entertainment company, this venue is the fourth operated by the business in the state. The Revo Casino joins a roster of 12 charitable casinos that collectively reported a combined yearly revenue of $139 million as of October 2024.
In Nashua, a new casino is set to open at the Pheasant Lane Mall, anticipated to become the largest in the state. Nashua already hosts three casinos, and the addition of this new venue underscores the city’s role as a central hub in New Hampshire’s gaming industry. However, the expansion of casinos has sparked debates in various communities. A proposal to allow municipalities to opt-in or opt-out of hosting casinos was introduced but did not pass the State House this year.
New Hampshire’s gaming industry has demonstrated robust revenue growth throughout 2024. The New Hampshire Lottery Commission reported that, for the state fiscal year 2024, all games and gambling under its auspices outperformed tobacco and liquor tax revenue by a significant margin. Lottery Commission-generated revenue was $43 million over budget in the fiscal year that ended on June 30.
Specifically, the state’s charitable gaming facilities have shown impressive performance. In August 2024, the combined revenue from the state’s twelve charitable gaming facilities was approximately $6.3 million. The Brook Casino in Seabrook led with $1.5 million of this total, followed by Gate City Casino, which generated $1.1 million.
The growth trajectory is expected to continue, with projections indicating that the charitable gaming industry could reach $1 billion in gross revenues within the next three years. This expansion not only contributes to the state’s economy but also provides substantial funding for various charitable organizations, enhancing their capacity to serve communities across New Hampshire.
Despite the positive economic indicators, the rapid expansion of the gaming industry presents challenges that require careful consideration. The introduction of new casinos has led to increased competition among charitable organizations for limited partnership opportunities. Legislative measures, such as the proposed caps on casino donations to individual charities, aim to address these disparities but have sparked debates regarding their potential impact on smaller nonprofits.
Furthermore, the postponement of online casino legislation reflects the complexities involved in balancing industry growth with regulatory oversight. As the state explores the potential introduction of slot machines and other gaming options, stakeholders must navigate the implications for problem gambling, community welfare, and economic sustainability.
Looking ahead, New Hampshire’s gaming industry is poised for continued growth and transformation. The anticipated introduction of slot machines, pending legislative approval, could further diversify gaming options and attract a broader demographic of patrons. Additionally, the potential passage of online casino legislation in 2025 may expand the industry’s digital footprint, aligning with broader trends in the national gaming landscape.
However, sustained growth will depend on the state’s ability to implement balanced regulations that promote economic benefits while safeguarding community interests. Ongoing dialogues among lawmakers, casino operators, charitable organizations, and the public will be crucial in shaping a gaming environment that is equitable, responsible, and prosperous for all stakeholders involved.
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December 23, 2024
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