Honolulu Bill Would Make Simulated Gambling Machines Illegal on Oahu

Gambling, in any form, is illegal in the state of Hawaii.  However, in recent years the Products Direct Sweepstakes machines have become extremely popular around Oahu.  While they may appear to be slot machines from the exterior, developers and operators of these devices insist that they are not gambling machines, but rather sweepstakes machines where people can win prizes without any purchase. Of course, if a patron would like additional opportunities to win a sweepstakes prize, they can purchase credits to play on. So far, there have been several raids conducted by local law enforcement agents, but the city's prosecutor's office has not yet prosecuted anyone in those arrests.  City officials stated that they are waiting for a clarification in the law.

A bill is currently before the Honolulu City Council would make it illegal to own, operate or use any simulated gambling machine on Oahu, including the Product Direct Sweepstakes machine. Under the bill, it would be illegal to "manage, supervise, maintain, provide, produce, possess or use" the machines. The violation would be considered a misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to 30 days in jail or both.

Source: Honolulu Star Advertiser, 4-14-2014, www.staradvertiser.com
Posted by Jeff Uyemura-Reyes, Principal Broker, REALTOR®
Global Executive Realty, LLC
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