Bill > HB588

This bill modifies the revenue distribution for historic horse racing (HHR) pari-mutuel pools in New Hampshire, changing how revenues are allocated after winnings are paid out. Currently, licensed entities conducting historic horse race wagering are required to distribute 35% of the collected revenues to charitable organizations, with preferences for local charities. The proposed legislation eliminates this charitable distribution requirement and instead mandates that the full 25% of revenues be paid directly to the lottery commission for use in the special fund established under RSA 284:21-j. Specifically, the bill removes language about charitable organization revenue sharing and replaces it with a straightforward instruction to pay the 25% to the lottery commission. The fiscal note indicates this change will redirect approximately $12.5 million annually from charitable organizations to the lottery fund, which ultimately credits net revenues to the state education trust fund. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and notably does not change the overall percentage that game operators receive (75%), focusing instead on redistributing the remaining 25% of revenues.

Budget and Finance

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0773&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB588