Slot Machines and a Resort for Portsmouth?

Without slot machines in the state of New Hampshire, many are beginning to get very frustrated. The current casino and slot machines bill before the State Senate is simply the latest of years of attempts to legalize slot machines in the state. This time Senate Bill 225 (the bill proposing a casino and slot machines) is backed by Republican State Senator John Gallus; and most are just unsure of the likelihood his bill will pass.

There is no doubt that the revenue from the casinos and slot machines would be beneficial to the state, but regardless of that fact, the State Senate has a history of vetoing slot machines at every opportunity they get. Gallus’ casino bill proposes operating a resort and casino in Pease International Tradeport. His bill does have merit; the slot machines, casino, and resort would go a long way toward revitalizing this area. The resort and casino would be built right in Portsmouth—and as other cities have seen, the construction of a large resort and casino means immediate construction jobs, and then hundreds of long-term jobs for the area as the casino and slot machines are up and running.

Others though see another reason Gallus is pushing so hard for the slot machines in Portsmouth. Gallus’ home town of Berlin is nearby and would also benefit greatly from the slot machines. Beyond just Portsmouth, the bill would allow slot machines across the county—another way to bring revenue to areas that could definitely use the additional funds.

But even though there are definite merits to Bill 225, the history of the voting Senate leads many to believe this is just one more bill the Senate will veto before it gets any real support behind it.

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