HB 2379 Summary

• Authorizes the Hawaiian Homes Commission to determine whether gaming operations shall be allowed on Hawaiian home lands, subject to majority vote approval by the commission.

• Requires the commission to consult with beneficiaries of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, 1920 to determine appropriateness of gaming sites and designate specific parcels for gaming operations.

• Establishes a Hawaii Gaming Commission within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs with five members appointed by the governor to license, evaluate, and regulate gaming operations.

• Imposes a wagering tax on monthly gross receipts from gaming operations at a rate to be determined, with 20 percent deposited into the general fund and 80 percent into the Hawaiian home lands trust fund after deducting the commission's administrative costs.

• Permits gaming licenses only on Hawaiian home lands parcels specifically designated by the Hawaiian Homes Commission, limiting gaming operations to bingo, lottery, slot machines, poker, and other games authorized by the commission.