Hawaii Senate Bill SR161

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism To Convene A Sports Wagering Working Group To Conduct A Comprehensive Analysis Of The Potential Legalization And Regulation Of Online Sports Wagering In Hawaii.

Impact

The formation of the Sports Wagering Working Group is aimed at thoroughly analyzing the implications of legalizing and regulating online sports betting. Among its tasks, the group will evaluate the potential revenue that could be derived from a legal online sports wagering market, recommending a regulatory structure modeled on the successful frameworks in other states where such betting is legal. This analysis is crucial as it sets the groundwork for potential legislation, which could significantly reshape the landscape of sports betting within Hawaii.

Summary

Senate Resolution 161 (SR161) requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism of Hawaii to create a working group focused on the study and potential regulation of online sports wagering. The resolution emphasizes the need for a legal framework to manage an activity that, according to the American Gaming Association, generates billions in illegal betting annually without oversight or consumer protections. This proposal suggests that legalizing sports wagering could redirect this unregulated market, thus generating significant tax revenues for the state and ensuring safer betting conditions.

Contention

There are points of contention surrounding the legalization of sports wagering, particularly in regard to consumer protections and gambling addiction. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to harness economic benefits, the state must also ensure robust safeguards are in place to protect consumers from the risks associated with online gambling. The working group will need to consider details including responsible gambling measures, consumer protection mechanisms, and the lessons learned from other states that have implemented similar frameworks.