By raising the legal age of sports betting to 21, New Hampshire may soon follow the majority of its neighbors. Senators Ruth Ward (R) and Suzanne Prentiss (D) have also endorsed House Bill 83 (HB-83), which was introduced by Representatives Sallie Fellows (D) and Michael Cahill (D). On January 8, the House Ways and Means Committee will consider the bill.
As of right now, New Hampshire is one of just seven states—along with Washington, D.C.—that enable sports betting by anybody under the age of 21. The minimum age is set at 21 in the surrounding states of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, and New York. The only neighboring exception, which still has an 18+ age limit, is Rhode Island.
Revenue Implications for the State and DraftKings
If enacted, the bill would likely take effect by mid-2026. However, it could come at a cost. Sponsors estimate the state would lose approximately $640,000 annually in tax revenue due to reduced participation from bettors under 21.
The proposed change could also impact DraftKings, New Hampshire’s exclusive online sportsbook operator. While the state isn’t a major revenue driver for the company, limiting access to younger bettors could hinder growth prospects. DraftKings holds a unique position as the state’s sole mobile sportsbook, an arrangement reviewed every two years.
New Hampshire may become less competitive in luring new sportsbook operators if the legal betting pool is restricted. Up to five cell operators are allowed by state law, but none have joined the market outside of DraftKings. Future entry by other businesses may be deterred by a lower betting population.
Although there may be financial trade-offs, raising the sports betting age might bring New Hampshire into compliance with industry standards. The argument will determine whether the state should focus on keeping its distinct stance to draw in younger bettors and perhaps new operators or on conforming to regional norms. Everyone is waiting to see how this plan develops at the committee meeting on January 8.
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