HI SR161

Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism directed to convene a Sports Wagering Working Group to analyze potential legalization and regulation of online sports wagering in Hawaii

Working group membership includes representatives from DBEDT, Senate, House, Attorney General's office, Department of Taxation, Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, law enforcement, and two representatives from the Sports Betting Alliance

Working group requested to identify estimated revenue potential, develop appropriate regulatory structure based on other states' experience, assess consumer protections and responsible gaming measures, and review benefits from online sports betting legalization in other states

Working group must submit comprehensive analysis report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes

Resolution cites $63 billion in estimated annual illegal sports betting in the United States and argues legal regulation would generate tax revenue while providing consumer protections absent in illegal markets