The New Hampshire Executive Council has voted to approve the state lottery’s decision to award DraftKings an exclusive contract to operate sports betting in the Granite State.
While legislation signed into law by Governor Chris Sununu in July allows for up to 10 retail sportsbook locations and five mobile offerings, it appears that DraftKings will serve as the state’s sole betting operator.
Its proposal to operate exclusively, which will see it return 50% of betting revenue to the state, was ranked as the best financial package, with the fastest implementation timeline, paving the way for a launch in January.
“We moved fast to get this done, and the deal is a win for New Hampshire,” Governor Sununu said. “We are partnering with a world-class company to provide a first-rate customer service experience.
“With today’s vote, everyone will now be able to bet on Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in time for this year’s Super Bowl.”
As part of its commitment to working closely with the New Hampshire Lottery, DraftKings will open an office in the state.
“Today’s affirmative vote begins a partnership with DraftKings that will offer our players an exciting opportunity to participate in sports betting with a trusted partner,” New Hampshire Lottery executive director Charlie McIntyre said of the council approval.
“The introduction of sports betting will broaden the appeal of the New Hampshire Lottery and engage new and existing customers, while generating millions of dollars in additional revenue to support education,” McIntyre continued.
“We are working directly with DraftKings to implement a sports betting system that both engages players, while also ensuring all appropriate safeguards are in place. The New Hampshire Lottery and DraftKings expect to launch mobile sports betting this January.”
The operator’s co-founder and chief revenue officer Matt Kalish said DraftKings looked forward to working closely with the lottery to bring sports betting to the state.
Kalish said: “Our best-in-class mobile sportsbook and several retail locations throughout the state are sure to be a hit with all types of customers as legalized sports betting continues to expand across the country.”
Currently six of the 10 retail wagering slots have been filled, after the cities of Berlin, Claremont, Franklin, Laconia, Manchester and Somersworth voted in favor of allowing sports betting in city elections during the fall.
New Hampshire towns will then be able to put the matter to voters on Town Meeting warrants in spring 2020.
Sports betting will be overseen by the Division of Sports Wagering, a new unit within the New Hampshire Lottery, with betting restricted to players aged 18 and above.
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