A significant discussion unfolded during the New Hampshire House of Representatives Committee meeting on February 10, 2025, focusing on House Bill 247, which proposes allowing municipalities to hold referendums on historic horse racing. Representative Bill Ulm, who presented the bill, emphasized the need for local control over gambling expansions, particularly in light of recent developments in Nashua where a small gaming establishment transformed into a major casino without local input.

Ulm highlighted that the current law lacks an opt-in provision, which has led to concerns about the rapid expansion of gambling facilities in communities. He argued that residents should have the authority to decide whether they want such establishments in their towns. The proposed bill aims to rectify this by requiring future historic horse racing establishments to undergo a referendum process, thereby giving local voters a say in the matter.

The meeting also featured input from Alicia Preston, representing the New Hampshire Charitable Gaming Operators Association, who raised concerns about protecting existing licenses under the new bill. She suggested minor language adjustments to ensure that current operators are not adversely affected by the proposed changes.

The discussions revealed a clear divide in public opinion, with the remote sign-ins showing 5 in support and 16 opposed to the bill. As the committee closed the public hearing, the implications of this legislation could reshape the landscape of gambling in New Hampshire, potentially empowering local communities to have a greater voice in decisions that affect their neighborhoods. The committee is expected to deliberate further on the bill's provisions in upcoming sessions.