Representative urges sending all VLT net revenue to Education Trust Fund to match constitutional language

CONCORD — Representative Jason Ames asked the House Ways and Means Committee to consider HB 1409, which would require 100% of net video‑lottery terminal (VLT) revenue to be deposited into the state's Education Trust Fund. Ames said the constitutional language governing state lottery revenues requires that such proceeds be used for state aid to education and that the current statutory allocation — which directs a portion to the general fund — creates a conflict.

Ames told the committee the bill would move an estimated $93.9 million in FY 2027 revenue from the general fund to the Education Trust Fund if enacted in the current session, citing the fiscal note attached to his statement. Committee members asked about precedent and whether courts had resolved similar allocation questions; Ames said he was not aware of controlling litigation but argued the legislative change would align statute with the constitution.

No formal action was taken at the hearing; members suggested follow‑up on fiscal mechanics and how funds newly routed to the Education Trust Fund would affect property‑tax relief and long‑term budgeting.

The committee closed public testimony on HB 1409 later in the session and moved to other items on the calendar.