Bill > SB203

This bill establishes a special intergovernmental task force within the Department of the Attorney General to combat illegal gambling and drug activities across Hawaii. The task force will include representatives from state and county law enforcement, transportation, and planning agencies, and will also invite federal agencies like the U.S. Attorney's Office, Department of Homeland Security, Drug Enforcement Agency, and FBI to participate. The task force's primary objectives are to examine the issues surrounding illegal gambling and drug activities, determine necessary resources, and develop a coordinated action plan. Specifically, they will explore creating a statewide program to identify and eliminate illegal gambling and drug houses, and establishing "community safe zones" with zoning restrictions that would require gambling-related properties to be at least 10,000 feet away from churches, schools, and residential areas. The task force is required to submit a report with findings and recommendations to the legislature before the 2026 regular legislative session and will be dissolved after that session. Task force members will serve without compensation and are not considered state employees. The bill acknowledges the harmful effects of these illegal activities, including increased violent crime and sex trafficking, and aims to address these issues through a collaborative, comprehensive approach.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=203&year=2026