State Sen. Lou D'Allesandro (D-Manchester) said that he thinks this legislative session is the best opportunity to pass bills that would expand gambling in New Hampshire.

"If there is any chance that we can get expanded gaming in the state it's this year," D'Allesandro told PolitickerNH.com. "The stars have aligned to allow the legislature to look at ways to bring in new revenues to the state."

D'Allesandro made the comments yesterday after being awarded the Friend of Business Award by the Business and Industry Association.

D'Allesandro, chairman of the State Senate Finance Committee, also said that aid from the federal government could help the state close the current $75 million budget deficit but added that he expects there will be cuts to government programs.

"I think obviously there's going to be some cuts in places but I also think that we're going to have to look at some revenue enhancements too," D'Allesandro said.

He added, "Right now it looks like the federal government might help the states with Medicaid and infrastructure improvements which would allow the state to create jobs and fund needed road projects."