New Hampshire Expands Casino Options with New Law

New Hampshire is rolling out big changes to its gambling rules, and they could reshape how casinos operate across the state. Governor Kelly Ayotte gave the green light to HB 2, a budget bill packed with several gambling updates that go well beyond just numbers on a page.

Good to know

• VLT taxes are now set at 31%, with funds split between charities and the state.
• High stakes poker tournaments are now legal in New Hampshire.
• Casinos can apply for permission to stay open 24/7.

One of the major changes is the removal of the cap on how many video lottery terminals (VLTs) casinos can install. Until now, there was a state-imposed limit, but that is no longer the case. Operators will soon be allowed to expand their VLT offerings, though it will take time for the new regulations to kick in.

Casinos will now pay a 31% tax on income generated from these machines. From that, 35% will support local charities and addiction-related programs that work directly with gambling venues. The rest—65%—will go to the state’s general fund.

HB 2 also wiped out betting limits for VLTs and historical horse racing games, giving players and operators more flexibility in how games are played. And the changes did not stop there.

Poker players have a reason to celebrate, too. The new law officially allows high stakes tournaments, with buy-ins above $2,500 now approved. That opens the door for bigger events and likely a broader audience for poker rooms across the state.

Casinos and gaming venues will also have the chance to run around the clock. But to do so, each one must get approval from local municipalities first. Free bets and promotional credits up to 15% of revenue are now allowed as well and will not be counted toward taxable gross income.

The state’s gaming commission also received a name upgrade. It is now called the New Hampshire Lottery and Gaming Commission, which reflects its expanded oversight of VLTs, historical horse racing, and even online sportsbooks. One statewide self-exclusion list will now cover all types of gambling activities instead of requiring players to sign up for separate lists depending on the format.

Meanwhile, new casino projects are already moving forward. The Nash Casino in Nashua officially opened earlier in 2025 and is expected to take full advantage of the recent rule changes. When plans for the venue were first announced in mid-2024, developers aimed to include thousands of VLTs and more than 60 table games. With the betting limit now removed and VLT caps lifted, the casino could soon expand its offerings or go 24 hours—pending local approval.

The new gambling landscape in New Hampshire is still taking shape, but one thing is clear: casino operators will have more room to grow than ever before.

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