Gambling means revenue and jobs

June 5, 2009

NH Business Review Staff,

To the editor:

While the state of New Hampshire faces an enormous and critical budget shortfall and needed services go lacking, jobs continue to disappear, businesses and families struggle, and more homes are being foreclosed every day.

A new source of revenue and job creation is needed now. The expansion of gambling would provide hundreds of millions to the state and create jobs in a variety of sectors without the imposition of a regressive sales tax, income tax or several other projected new taxes.

Gambling has been legal in New Hampshire since 1933, and it has never adversely affected the quality of life we enjoy. Every day citizens are wagering on the state lottery, Powerball, horse racing and greyhound racing. Moreover, charitable poker, blackjack, craps, roulette and bingo also are legal.

Would it make that much difference if someone bets $2 on the Kentucky Derby or puts eight quarters into a video lottery terminal at the racetrack? I think not.

Lynne Snierson
Salem

Categories: Cook on Concord

More news from NHBR:

2026 BOB Awards Party Photos

Check out photos from the 2026 BOB Awards celebration, which was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord.

NH economist lowers forecast for 2026

A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.

The Bottom Line: Planet Fitness, Skillsoft and Itaconix

A roundup of news updates from public companies in NH and nationwide

Take 5: Senior housing, entry-level hiring and AI

NH Business Review's biweekly snapshot of business and industry statistics

NHBR About Town: Week of March 13, 2026

Business and event happenings around the state of NH

The Latest: Week of March 13, 2026

The Latest is a roundup of the comings and goings of the movers and shakers in NH's business community

Federal data: Outdoor recreation generates $4.2B for NH economy

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.

Digital Healthcare And Network Connection On Hologram Modern Vi

Executive Council pauses $773M federal rural health spending

The NH Executive Council paused the approval of $773 million in federal spending contracts for the “GO NORTH” rural health program Wednesday, March 4, putting the brakes on a major initiative of Gov. Kelly Ayotte after councilors said the contracts were rushed and needed more scrutiny.

Medical Icons And A Hand Highlighting The Plus Sign, Symbolizing

Health issues are starting earlier in the workforce

Employer health benefits costs are rising faster than inflation and wage growth, putting continued pressure on employer-sponsored plans. According to KFF’s 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey, per-employee benefit costs increased 6% in 2025, with another 6.5% increase projected for 2026.