Republican legislators in New Hampshire are calling on the state Supreme Court to intervene in Senator Andy Sanborn’s fight to regain his casino license. They argue that allowing Sanborn to proceed with the sale of the Concord Casino could benefit taxpayers, state revenues, and local charities. The case, a high-stakes battle in New Hampshire’s gaming landscape, has drawn sharp political and public attention.
A Contentious License Revocation
Andy Sanborn, a former Republican state senator, has been embroiled in legal wrangling since the state revoked his gaming license in November. While the specific reasons for the revocation have not been detailed in public filings, the move halted his plans to sell the Concord Casino, a popular entertainment hub. Sanborn has since taken the fight to the state’s highest court, seeking to overturn the decision.
The state Supreme Court has yet to announce whether it will hear Sanborn’s appeal. In the meantime, Republican lawmakers are urging the court to step in, arguing that the state’s actions may have been excessive and detrimental to broader public interests.
Lawmakers Rally Behind Sanborn
House Majority Leader Jason Osborne and other Republican leaders submitted a formal request to the court, highlighting the potential benefits of allowing Sanborn to reclaim his license. Their argument rests on three key points:
- Economic Impact: The Concord Casino generates significant revenue, and its sale could inject additional funds into the state’s economy.
- Taxpayer Benefits: The transaction could lead to increased tax revenues, which lawmakers argue would benefit public services.
- Support for Charities: Local charities, which rely on donations facilitated by the casino’s operations, stand to lose a vital source of funding if the sale falls through.
Osborne’s filing frames the matter as one of public good, emphasizing the potential ripple effects on state finances and community programs.
A Polarized Debate
Sanborn’s case has sparked a polarized debate among state officials, gaming industry stakeholders, and the public. Supporters argue that Sanborn has been unfairly targeted and that revoking his license disrupts business operations that benefit the state. Critics, however, suggest that maintaining rigorous oversight of gaming licenses is essential to ensuring transparency and accountability.
The case also raises questions about the future of gaming regulation in New Hampshire, a state that has been cautiously expanding its gaming footprint in recent years. Legal experts say the Supreme Court’s decision on whether to hear the appeal could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.
What’s Next for Concord Casino?
The future of the Concord Casino remains uncertain as legal proceedings unfold. The casino, known for hosting charitable gaming events and drawing visitors from across the region, is in limbo. Without a resolution, potential buyers may be hesitant to move forward with the acquisition, putting the casino’s operations at risk.
For now, all eyes are on the state Supreme Court. A decision to hear the case would signal that the court sees merit in Sanborn’s arguments, potentially paving the way for a lengthy legal battle. Conversely, a refusal to take up the appeal could leave the revocation in place, effectively ending Sanborn’s bid to sell the casino.
