Legislative Update for April 15, 2019

STATE BUDGET / TOURISM PROMOTION:  The House passed its version of the State Budget on a vote of 225-159.  The vote was strictly on party lines.  No republicans voted for it and all democrats voted for in favor.  The House version keeps the Governor’s proposed increase of $3 million per year in the state budget to promote NH as a destination spot.  $10.8 million would be appropriated each year.  This is the first time in a long time that a budget is advancing with funding tourism promotion at the statutory amount equaling 3.15% of the rooms and meals taxes collecting in the prior year.  This is a big victory for those in the tourism industry.  The bill now goes to the Senate.
 
CASINO GAMBLING:  The House Ways & Means Committee will hear SB 310 next Thursday, April 18.  The bill would allow two casinos in the State. 

SPORTS BETTING:  On Wednesday, April 24 the Senate Ways & Means Committee will hear HB 480, which would authorize the NH Lottery Commission to conduct sports betting directly or through authorized agents.  Authorized agents would be chosen by a competitive bid process.

​Contact the NHLRA with your legislative questions or concerns at 603-228-9585 or info@nhlra.com.