United States
United Kingdom
Summary
- Efforts to allow various gambling activities in Hawaii have stalled.
- Gambling proposals have been introduced for decades without passage.
- Its likely that election year caused the bills to be considered more controversial.
Hawaii is one of just two states in the US that does not offer any form of gambling activity. Legislation is introduced in the state on a regular basis, only to fall short in committee or never even make it on the table. This week, several bills proposed in the state were declined, leaving the area yet again without any type of gambling services.
Legislators decided to not schedule the measures at this time, or to vote down the idea of casinos, sports betting, and lottery gaming. If the bills had remained in place, the proposals would have moved on the final committees in the House and Senate on Thursday.
An Uphill Battle
The legislators in favor of gambling in Hawaii continue to introduce bills even though they know that there is little chance that the measures will gain enough support to move forward. John Mizuno, the House Vice Speaker, is supportive of gambling and says that lawmakers most likely won’t touch such legislation this year due to election season coming up. Most legislators apparently do not feel that gambling is the best way to help the state move forward.
All sorts of legislation were on the table, including House Bill 1820. This measure would have created a membership style casino in Waikiki. The measure was unable to move forward, never even receiving a hearing.
Two additional measures were focused on an analysis of gambling, including cost and benefits. It seems that at least this measure would move forward to have more information on the subject, but now, it failed too. The measures set $500,000 to the side to pay for a gaming study.
Senate Bill 2310 would have created a lottery system for the state. Funds would go towards projects to help eradicate invasive species. Yet another bill would give lottery funds to education needs including improving public school systems.
Concerns of Crime and Addiction
Opponents of gambling in Hawaii are concerned about the downsides of the industry, including crime increase and player addiction. Those opposed say that the downsides outweigh the positives. Hawaii Family Forum, a faith-based group, are part of those opposed. The group says bringing gambling to the front door, including the ill effects, is not seen as a positive thing.
It is important to note that illegal gambling does take place on the islands, putting players at risk and consisting of illegal activity. Illegal game rooms are set up in various spots along the island and cock fights are also known to take place.
We imagine legislators that support gambling are not giving up yet, but it will likely be next year before we see any more gambling focused legislation on the table.
