Hawaii House Bill HB1396

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/21
• Refer: 2/1/21

Caption

Proposing Amendments To Article Xii Of The Constitution Of State Of Hawaii To Authorize The Legislature To Make Amendments To The Management And Disposition Of The Hawaiian Home Lands.

Impact

The amendments proposed by HB 1396 would directly influence existing statutes related to the management of Hawaiian home lands. By formally prohibiting casino gaming on these lands, the bill aims to preserve the cultural and historical significance of Hawaiian home lands, which are intended for the benefit of native Hawaiians. This legislative proposal reflects ongoing concerns regarding the commercialization of these lands and seeks to maintain their integrity against encroachments that could arise from casino establishments.

Summary

House Bill 1396 proposes amendments to Article XII of the Constitution of the State of Hawaii, primarily aimed at allowing the legislature to amend the management and disposition of Hawaiian home lands. This bill is significant in that it seeks to prohibit the construction and operation of casino gaming and wagering on these lands, which has been a topic of contention within the state. The introduction of this bill signifies a focused effort to reinforce the regulatory framework governing Hawaiian lands, ensuring that such lands are not used for casino operations.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB 1396 is the debate over economic opportunities versus cultural preservation. Proponents argue that preventing casino gaming is essential to protecting native Hawaiian culture and communities from potential negative impacts associated with gambling. On the other hand, some stakeholders may view this prohibition as a restriction on potential economic development opportunities that could arise from regulated gambling operations, raising discussions about the balance of preserving tradition while also fostering economic growth.