House adopts resolution directing DBEDT to convene tourism and gaming working group after heated debate

The Hawaii House of Representatives adopted a resolution directing the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) to convene a tourism and gaming working group, following extended debate on the House floor.

Supporters described the measure as a fact-finding step to assess models for regulated gaming and potential economic benefits, while opponents argued the working group’s composition and likely participation by gaming companies risked shaping a pro-industry outcome before public safeguards were considered.

Representative Holt, speaking in support, said the resolution is "dedicated to examining the potential in legalizing and regulating gaming in Hawaii," and framed the working group as a means to gather information about possible models, safeguards and cultural considerations. Holt also cited testimony that the Honolulu Police Department had identified "70 to 100 game rooms" operating on Oahu and said Hawaii remains "one of only two states in the nation with a complete ban on all forms of legalized gaming," comments offered as background for studying the issue.

Opponents pressed the House on the working-group membership and the risk of industry influence. Representative Garrett said, "When you create a working group, invite representatives of gaming corporations to the table, and ask them to help draft the tourism gaming policy, you're not just studying the issue. You're scripting the outcome." Representative Shimizu named private companies she said were positioned to take part and urged the House to ensure balance, arguing DBEDT's prior analysis found modest revenue from online sports wagering and warned of social harms.

Other speakers raised additional concerns and caveats: Representative Imamoto said she supported the measure "with reservations" and asked that the working group study consumer protections and the social costs of gambling. Representative Hussey and Representative Chun registered opposition or reservations, noting earlier committee edits and their preferences about which entities should participate.

Procedurally, Representative Todd moved to adopt the standing committee recommendations and the listed senate concurrent resolutions; Representative Morikawa seconded. The House took voice votes on the motions and the clerk announced the motion carried.

The resolution tasks DBEDT with convening a working group and producing proposed legislation or recommendations for future consideration. The House record shows members entered written reservations and requested insertion of remarks in the journal; several members also requested that a roll-call vote be considered but the final action was taken by voice vote.

Members on both sides urged careful follow-up: proponents asked for an inclusive, culturally appropriate framework; opponents demanded clear consumer-protection safeguards and limits on industry influence. The adopted resolution begins a formal study process but does not itself change law or authorize commercial gaming.

The working group’s work plan, membership, schedule and any required follow-up reports were not specified on the floor record and will be determined in subsequent steps.