Up until Wednesday (26 February) afternoon, Hawaii looked like the state with the best shot to legalise digital sports betting in 2025. But the senate commerce and consumer protection/ways and means committee opted instead to defer the bill.
Its companion, HB 1308, got through the house finance committee two days earlier. But without a taste for the issue in the senate, any further action by the house will likely be academic.
SB 1569 did not get any discussion Wednesday. “After reviewing the testimony, the recommendation is to defer,” said Donovan M. Dela Cruz, chairman of the senate committee.
Written testimony revealed that multiple state government agencies oppose the measure, including the department of the prosecuting attorney; the department of business, economic development and tourism; and the attorney general. All cited concerns about risks to public health, in particular financial duress and addiction.
The narcotics division of the Hawaii police department also weighed in, saying multiple studies have shown increased risk of suicide, theft and other crimes among those who become addicted.
Negative testimony dominant
In the 151 pages of written testimony, there were dozens of sources of opposition. Beyond the state agencies, problem and responsible gambling advocates shared concerns. Some individuals shared stories and others wrote impassioned pleas against legalisation.
“Are we that desperate and stupid to even consider this bill?” wrote John Otto. “Where does someone get the idea that you can take something that is illegal, immoral and a detriment to society, and then legalise it and repackage it as a good thing? Call it what you want … a turd in a $5,000 stinkin’ suit is still a turd.”
BetMGM, DraftKings and the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) were among a handful of proponents supporting the bill, and industry testimony started on page 69 of the 151-page committee packet. The SBA is made up of BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook and FanDuel.
Hawaii’s legislative session ends 2 May and the crossover deadline is 6 March.
Original article: https://igamingbusiness.com/sports-betting/hawaii-senate-sports-betting-dead/
