If you were betting on New Hampshire being the next state to authorize online gambling sites, it might be time to reassess those expectations.
This shift comes as Cordish Companies, a major player against igaming, secured approval to establish a significant presence in New Hampshire with a $200 million investment in Live! Casino Salem.
Scheduled to launch in 2025, this casino will offer 900 machines for historical horse racing and more than 40 gaming tables. It’s anticipated to boost the local economy by $128 million annually.
The arrival of Cordish Companies in New Hampshire gives them substantial influence. Previously, the state was on the radar as a potential candidate for legalizing online casinos.
### New Hampshire Almost Made It…
In 2023, New Hampshire’s senate approved a bill regarding online casinos, but it didn’t make it through the house. Proposed by Senator Timothy Lang, the legislation aimed to channel igaming revenues into the community college fund and set the minimum gambling age at 18.
Senator Lang has expressed his determination to introduce another igaming bill in the 2025 legislative session, starting on January 8.
With a history of similar bills passing the house, and neighboring states like Connecticut and Rhode Island already embracing online casinos, New Hampshire appeared to be in a strong position to follow suit.
However, this was before Cordish Companies entered the scene.
While this doesn’t entirely erase the possibility of online casinos in the state, the advocates for igaming in New Hampshire now face a formidable opponent in Cordish Companies.
To see how things could unfold, just look at Maryland’s experience.
For more details: [Read the full story](https://www.casinoreports.com/new-hampshire-online-casino-hopes-hurt/).
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