Relating To Casino Gaming.
If enacted, HB772 would significantly modify Hawaii's existing regulatory framework concerning gambling. A newly created Hawaii gaming control commission would oversee the casino operations, imposing a wagering tax on gross receipts. Revenue generated from this tax would contribute to a dedicated state gaming fund, which is earmarked for various purposes, including funding programs for compulsive gambling and ensuring public security within the casino facility. This law would mark a pivotal change in Hawaii's stance on gambling, distinguishing casino gaming from other gambling forms that are currently permitted.
House Bill 772 proposes the establishment of a members-only casino in Waikiki, allowing access exclusively to individuals who stay at hotels in the area. The bill aims to revitalize nighttime entertainment in Waikiki, creating an economic stimulus by generating jobs and generating significant revenue for the State. The focus on hotel patrons is seen as a method to mitigate potential adverse impacts of gambling on local residents while targeting tourists who reportedly favor this form of entertainment, according to surveys indicating strong support from visitors.
The proposed casino has drawn mixed reactions from state legislators and the public. Supporters argue that the initiative would provide economic benefits, revitalizing tourism and creating high-paying jobs in the face of declining entertainment options in Waikiki. Opponents, however, voice concerns over potential negative social impacts and increased gambling addiction rates. Additionally, the bill's limitation to hotel patrons is debated, seen by some as a protective measure for residents, while others view it as unnecessarily restrictive. The ongoing discourse will likely shape the future of the legislative process around the bill.