Lawmakers ‘cautiously optimistic’ on redesigned Hawaii sports betting bill

After years of unsuccessful attempts, local lawmakers Hawaii Sports betting can make legalization a reality.

Bill (HB 344) filed on 20 January Mizuno It seeks to create a legal framework for HI sports betting, but unlike previous proposals it does not mention casinos, slot machines, tax rates, fees or ownership standards.

“This year we took a different approach,” Mizuno said. “Too much is too much to attack. Using the word ‘casino’ can be like shouting ‘fire’ in a theater, so in talking to some supporters , created this term very intentionally to keep things open. “

Last year’s bill 55% Highest tax rate on sports betting in Texas.

Expansion of Gaming in Antigaming State

While Hawaii, one of the least gambling states in the country, has been slow to legalize sports betting, the industry is now legalized in some form in more than 35 states.Current peer-to-peer social gambling It’s the only legal form of the game.

Mizuno’s latest bill would allow independent establishments for patrons to bet on sports and create a regulatory framework for online sports betting, although it does not specify the entities covered by the license.

“Gaming always requires attention. The biggest gaming bill we’ve ever passed was bingo. It’s going to be hard to get through, but I’m cautiously optimistic,” Mizuno said. “This is one of the first times we’ve seen ESPN, local media, and a lot of domestic people connect with us and show a lot of interest.”

Where Do Hawaii Sports Betting Earnings Go?

The bill does not specify the use of sports betting proceeds beyond the enforcement of the law to cover costs related to regulation. The use of proceeds may become a central issue for future discussions.

“A billion (dollars) of residents’ money end up in Las Vegas each year,” Mizuno said. “If we can get that 25% off on sports betting, we’ll be able to prevent tax increases. We can use it to house domestic violence, homelessness, and more.”

Next Steps for Hawaii’s Sports Betting Bill

Mizuno hopes his new bill will be debated in parliament Economic Development Boarda fellow advocate of sports betting Congressman Daniel Holt Chair.

After that, you should proceed to the next step. Justice and Consumer Protection committee before the House plenary votes on it.

Holt is 2019 The sports betting bill that passed the first two committees before dying on the Consumer Protection Commission. It was the most advanced sports betting bill ever passed by Congress.