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Bill

HB 247

authorizing municipalities to hold a referendum on whether to allow historic horse racing.

Introduced by Kevin Avard and 1 co-sponsor

HB 247 lets New Hampshire municipalities hold referendums to authorize historic horse racing, shifting gaming decisions from state to local level.

Committee Report: Inexpedient to Legislate, 05/08/2025, Vote 3-2; SC 20
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Bill Summary · HB 247

Legislative bill overview

HB 247 would authorize New Hampshire municipalities to hold local referendums allowing voters to decide whether to permit historic horse racing within their jurisdiction. Historic horse racing is a form of wagering that combines horse racing footage with gaming machines. The bill gives communities local control over whether to allow this activity rather than having it decided at the state level.

Why is this important

This bill represents a decentralization approach to gaming regulation, allowing communities to opt-in to historic horse racing rather than imposing it statewide. The outcome affects local economic development (potential tax revenue and job creation) and social policy (gambling expansion and its community impacts). It's currently stalled in the legislative process despite initial committee support.

Potential points of contention

  • Gambling expansion concerns: Opponents argue historic horse racing expands gambling opportunities, potentially increasing problem gambling rates and associated social costs that may outweigh local tax revenue benefits
  • Local control vs. state consistency: Questions about whether piecemeal local approval creates regulatory complexity, unequal access across regions, and potential impacts on bordering communities
  • Definition and oversight: Unclear standards for what constitutes "historic horse racing" and how municipalities would regulate and monitor operations without establishing a comprehensive state regulatory framework

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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