Rolling the dice with Hawai‘i’s society

Hawai‘i is famous for its beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife. Gambling may soon be added to that list.

The debate on whether to legalize gambling has resurfaced for economic reasons. Financially, it sounds like a grand idea, but its associated social problems outweigh its positive aspects.

If a single casino were to open up in Hawai‘i, the crime rate would inevitably rise. According to a Wisconsin study, researchers studied 14 counties containing casinos and 13 counties bordering casinos. Arrest rates in counties with casinos were 12.2 percent higher than non-casino counties. Admittedly, some studies from other states found no increase.

A prospering gaming community will also influence young adults and teenagers to partake in such activities. The presence of these establishments will encourage bad habits, as a majority of teenagers have admitted to some form of gambling. Another study found that young adults are often attracted to the 24-hour-a-day action.

In addition to a possible increase in crime and negative influence on youth, the whole community will be affected. Las Vegas, for example, has one of the highest divorce and suicide rates in the nation. This is largely attributed to its main source of revenue, casinos.

Also, compulsive gambling leads to neglect of responsibilities. Finances are one of the major reasons couples get divorced, and living in a casino-strewn city can lead to economic difficulties. The fluctuating flow of money also stresses an individual, as their primary goal will only be to develop new ways to win money from an unpredictable slot machine. A solution to this often leads to the taking of one’s own life, with a suicide happening almost every day in Las Vegas, according to National Public Radio News.

Living in a city where a valet can make more money in tips in a single night than an entry-level employee can in a week is also a deterrent to completing school. Such casino- and hotel-oriented jobs may provide a nice hourly wage, but many of the best paying jobs are saved for those deemed the most “aesthetically pleasing.” These jobs adjust to the economy and many people have recently lost their jobs because casinos need fewer employees.

The hourly rates for casino jobs may appeal to today’s youth, but the demands of work will increase with each individual’s age. The prospect of dealing cards for an entire shift will lose its appeal. At that point, there is not much of a job market outside the city for an older worker with experience exclusively in the casino industry.

Considering that we are in a recession and Hawai‘i faces a $1.2 billion budget deficit, any proposals for a new source of revenue will be accepted. A study conducted by Michigan Consultants for gambling lobbyists estimated that two casinos on O‘ahu would bring in $711 million, with $309 million from gambling.

Currently, Hawai‘i and Utah are the only states that have outlawed gambling. Many have voiced their opinions on legalized gaming, claiming that such activities are not harmful, and that it is already a pastime for locals.

Thus, the option of gambling has shown up repeatedly, and some lawmakers are considering it as a solution.

It is no surprise that gambling is a growing billion-dollar industry. The revenue it could bring to Hawai‘i will help its current financial crisis.

However, these casinos will take a substantial amount of time to be fully functional. The two proposed casinos would bring in $143 million per year in tax revenues, but even that is not enough for a cash-strapped state.

Instead of turning to gambling, lawmakers should explore other options and promote what is unique to Hawai‘i. Tourists come here for the weather, culture and outdoor activities. A mention of Hawai‘i evokes thoughts of swimming in the ocean and hiking, not images of sitting at a slot machine.

Legislators need to focus on beautifying the paradise we already have. Emphasizing family-oriented and nightlife activities should be enough to draw in tourists.