Hawaii has historically been very restrictive regarding gambling; it is one of only five states without even a lottery. Some lawmakers are trying to soften this stance, introducing bills on Wednesday that would legalize online casinos and sports betting.
Three bills propose introducing legal sportsbooks to combat black market gambling and to help drive extra revenue that could go toward important public programs.
Two of them are companion bills for the House and Senate, which also call for regulating daily fantasy sports and propose a 10% tax rate on these activities. Senate Bill 1572 suggests a 15% tax rate and a $250,000 license fee.
create the Hawaii Lottery and Gaming Corporation to oversee games of chance
A bill from Senate President Ron Kouchi would create the Hawaii Lottery and Gaming Corporation to oversee games of chance like a state lottery, online casino games, and poker. It would also embrace sweepstakes gaming at a time when many groups across the country are rallying against the sector.
Despite the positive news that lawmakers are trying to make changes, previous attempts to expand gambling were met with stiff resistance due to concerns about the knock-on social consequences like upticks in crime and addiction.
