Eight municipalities in New Hampshire are taking steps to prohibit the establishment of casinos within their jurisdictions by leveraging a recently enacted state law that empowers communities to opt out of allowing gambling venues.
The towns of Henniker, Candia, Bedford, Barrington, Hancock, New London, and Littleton have all enacted ordinances that prohibit new casinos in their areas. Additionally, Portsmouth enacted a ban just three months after the governor signed House Bill 737 into law.
Conway is anticipated to conduct a similar vote this week.
The new law applies specifically to future casino proposals. It stipulates that communities which opt out cannot be chosen for new gaming establishments; however, existing projects and those in development are safeguarded by a grandfather clause.
Protection for existing projects
This clause is particularly significant for Littleton, where a casino project, supported by an out-of-state operator, has been in the works for over three years. In February, a developer associated with GSG Littleton Propco LLC acquired land to develop a new gaming venue, as indicated by state and local documentation.
State Representative Bill Boyd, a Republican from Merrimack and the bill’s sponsor, stated that Littleton’s decision will not alter the ongoing project since it started before the town’s legislative decision.
According to the law’s terms, only new casino locations are restricted in towns that choose to opt out.
Community authority at the forefront of discussion
The law was enacted last year, granting municipalities the authority to determine whether casinos can be present within their boundaries. This provision stands in sharp contrast to the established local authority to opt out of Keno, New Hampshire’s state-run lottery game.
Boyd, who also proposed legislation permitting social districts in municipalities last year, emphasized that both laws were designed to enhance local control over the types of establishments allowed in their communities.
“I’m pleased with the swift community involvement as it indicates that residents are engaged in local matters and how they envision their communities,” Boyd remarked, as reported by the Concord Monitor.
Amy Manzelli, president of Granite Staters for Responsible Gaming, expressed that the community welcomes the opportunity to participate in decisions regarding local establishments.
“In New Hampshire, there is a strong and heartfelt commitment to local governance,” she noted.
Municipal concerns over industry expansion
When gaming operations were first legalized in New Hampshire, the vision was for smaller, locally owned venues. However, these have evolved into larger establishments encompassing restaurants and live performances.
Industry analysts predict that New Hampshire’s gaming market could potentially soar to $1.1 billion within the next three years.
Manzelli pointed out that many communities have reservations about how large gambling operations might impact local infrastructure, especially concerning traffic management and emergency services.
“New Hampshire lacks a robust framework to ensure municipalities can effectively manage these impacts,” she explained. “As the gaming sector progressed, the regulations were crafted with small-scale venues in mind, like traditional bingo nights.”
Boyd insisted that casino operators still have many options throughout the state.
“Even if towns such as Littleton are opposed to casinos, there are over 260 cities and towns in New Hampshire. I believe casinos can find communities willing to embrace them and collaborate with local authorities to realize their projects,” Boyd affirmed.