Should Hawaii Gamble On Online Sports Betting? … Measures that would regulate online sports betting could generate some tax revenues for the state, but experts worry easy access could fuel gambling addictions.
When the Kansas City Chief’s offense had a catastrophic meltdown in the final minutes of the AFC championship game against the Cincinnati Bengals, it cost the team’s supporters more than just another shot at a Super Bowl title.
It also cost thousands across the U.S. for those who bet money on the Chiefs, seven-point favorites heading into last week’s game. On the flip side, the Chiefs loss meant a huge payday for the minority putting money on the underdog Bengals.
Such is the risk millions of Americans take each week in the 33 states that have a regulated form of sports wagering. Now, Hawaii lawmakers are considering whether to join those ranks and regulate betting in the islands.
Top proposals include bills to regulate sports wagering on mobile devices and others to permit fantasy sports websites to operate in the state. Lawmakers also have introduced proposals for a casino in the state, but some see betting as more palatable than other types of gambling.
