New Hampshire to Raise Sports Betting Age to 21
### Key Points at a Glance
– New Hampshire plans to raise the minimum age for sports betting from 18 to 21.
– Bill HB-83 will be reviewed by the House Ways and Means Committee on January 8.
– The increase could reduce annual tax revenue by approximately $640,000.
– DraftKings, the state’s exclusive online betting provider, could also be affected.
– The decision could bring New Hampshire closer to regional standards.
### Background: Why the Minimum Age is Being Changed
New Hampshire is one of the few U.S. states where sports betting is allowed starting at age 18. In neighboring states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine, and New York, the minimum age is 21. Rhode Island is the only exception in the region, allowing betting from age 18 as well.
The HB-83 bill, introduced by Representatives Sallie Fellows (D) and Michael Cahill (D), is supported by Senators Ruth Ward (R) and Suzanne Prentiss (D). The goal is to align the age limit with regional and national standards.
### Financial Impact on the State
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If the bill is passed, it could take effect in mid-2026. However, the change is expected to negatively impact tax revenue. According to estimates from the bill’s sponsors, the state could lose around $640,000 annually in tax revenue due to the exclusion of younger bettors.
### Impact on DraftKings and the Betting Market
DraftKings, New Hampshire’s sole licensed online sports betting provider, could also be affected by the change. While the state is not a primary market for the company, excluding younger bettors could limit its growth potential.
New Hampshire allows up to five mobile betting operators, but so far, no other provider has entered the market alongside DraftKings. A smaller target audience could make the market even less attractive for new operators to join.
### Arguments For and Against Raising the Minimum Age
Proponents of the change argue that raising the minimum age would better align New Hampshire with industry standards. This could strengthen the state’s reputation as a credible market in the long term.
Critics, however, warn that New Hampshire could lose its unique selling points by making this change. Younger bettors might turn to other states, impacting both tax revenue and the potential for attracting new operators.
### Our Perspective
The proposed increase in the minimum age for sports betting in New Hampshire is a move with both advantages and disadvantages. While aligning with regional standards could enhance the market’s credibility, the potential financial losses for the state and DraftKings should not be overlooked.
It remains to be seen how discussions in the House Ways and Means Committee on January 8 will unfold. The decision will not only shape the future of New Hampshire’s betting market but could also serve as an example for other states considering similar changes.