The House Judiciary Committee voted 13 to 1 to recommend "do not pass" on House Concurrent Resolution 3002, which would have referred a sports-betting question to voters in a general election if passed by both chambers.

Representative Olson moved the do-not-pass recommendation, seconded by Representative Van Winkle. Committee discussion noted prior attempts and opposition to referral, including testimony from university and religious groups opposed to authorizing sports betting. The resolution would not itself legalize sports betting; it would place a referendum question on the general election ballot if enacted by both the House and Senate.

Representative Henderson argued opponents of legislative referral could instead gather signatures to place the issue on the ballot: "If the citizens that really want this, if they get off the couch and go get their signatures, they could get this on the ballot," Henderson said, arguing the legislature should not proactively put the question before voters. Committee members said they heard little support from proponents during the hearing and substantial organized opposition.

On roll call the committee approved the do-not-pass motion 13 to 1; Representative Better (recorded as Vice chair Better in the transcript) was the lone no vote during the roll. Representative Satrim was asked to serve as bill carrier for the committee's disposition.

Why it matters: A do-not-pass recommendation ends the committee's consideration for the session unless proponents secure further action. Proponents can still pursue a ballot initiative outside the legislature; the committee's vote reflects limited legislative support and organized stakeholder opposition.

The committee recorded its vote; there was no further action on the resolution in committee this day.