Gov. Kelly Ayotte approved HB 2, a broad budget bill which also includes measures to remove a cap on how many video lottery terminals (VLTs) New Hampshire casinos can support.
While the law changed, it will take months for the new gambling regulation rollout to come into effect.
Key takeaways
- The New Hampshire budget bill approval removed the cap on the number of VLTs casinos can support.
- VLTs in New Hampshire will now be taxed at 31%.
- Other gambling changes included renaming the New Hampshire Lottery Commission as the New Hampshire Lottery and Gaming Commission.
Casinos producing income from VLTs will now be taxed at 31%, with 35% distributed to local charities working with casinos and addiction prevention programs, while the other 65% goes to the state’s general fund.
The bill also included measures to remove the wager limit on games of chance like VLTs. The bet limit removal will also extend to historic horse racing.
Other New Hampshire gambling changes introduced
VLT tax alterations and the cap on introduction weren't the only gambling changes Gov. Ayotte brought in. High stakes poker tournaments are now permitted in the state, allowing games with buy-ins above $2,500.
Casinos and other gaming facilities may now operate 24-hour facilities, although each gambling location needs local municipality approval before running this type of service. Casinos will also be permitted to offer free bets and promotions up to 15% of revenue, which are now excluded from gross income calculations.
The New Hampshire Lottery Commission's name was tweaked to the New Hampshire Lottery and Gaming Commission, to cover its broader regulation scope, including VLTs and historical horse racing. New Hampshire online sportsbooks also fall under the New Hampshire Lottery and Gaming Commission's regulation.
In addition, the state combined its gambling self-exclusion programs into one system that covers all gambling.
Gambling changes after new casino launch
The New Hampshire gambling market saw some significant changes in 2025, even before the new rules on VLTs and other gambling regulations. In March 2025, The Nash Casino in Nashua, New Hampshire officially opened its doors, bringing a new gambling location to Granite State residents.
Plan details for The Nash Casino first emerged in July 2024, with the gambling venue expected to provide thousands of VLTs and over 60 table games. The casino will now have more flexibility with its gambling options, with the choice to add more VLTs, remove betting limits on these games, and potentially open 24/7.
