Local Police Decry Effort
The Honolulu Police Department has expressed its concerns about legalizing sports betting. They pointed out the many dangers of the industry and questioned if the tax revenue generated would be as much as promised.
The department’s concerns were echoed by a surprising ally: Boyd Gaming. The Las Vegas gaming giant agreed with the police's concerns, warning that the money generated will not be enough to offset the damaging effects gambling can have on residents.
Proponents Warn of Illegal Gambling
Hawaii is a unique market because it doesn’t share a border with other states. Its remote location allows residents to fly several hours to Las Vegas if they wish to wager. However, proponents believe residents are finding different options.
Like the rest of the US, Hawaii has seen residents wager with offshore sportsbooks over the years. These unregulated options are far more dangerous than a legal market, which would at least generate funds to help combat problem gambling. This was a driving reason behind Governor Josh Green’s support of (carefully) exploring a legal sports betting market.
Online Casino Bill Also Proposed
Sports betting isn’t the only form of gambling being considered by Hawaiian lawmakers. Senate Bill 1507 would allow the Hawaii Lottery and Gaming Corporation to create a framework for an iGaming industry. The industry would be Hawaiann-themed, offering the state’s many visitors a unique experience from what they get in the continental US.
Like sports betting, many lawmakers have voiced concerns over the impact on the state’s residents. While problem gambling programs would be created, they would likely be more limited than those in the rest of the country. This makes the passage of SB1507 unlikely, though it should give an indication of just how realistic legalization is.