Editorial
Gambling is hardly a bold new idea

State lawmakers have defended their work during the special emergency session this month by pointing out that only so much could be accomplished on a quick-trigger basis.

The regular session is not that far away (it convenes in January) and by then the picture may be clearer, legislative leaders said.

"We've only taken the first step on our long journey," said House Speaker Calvin Say. "Our real test lies ahead in the year 2002. When we convene in January, all of us will have a fuller grasp of our situation."

That's true. By January it may be perfectly obvious what needs to be done. But it is also possible that by January the only thing perfectly obvious is that something should have been done sooner.

The economic crunch that has hit Hawai'i poses a challenge on two fronts. The first is the immediate need to shore up the social safety net, promote tourism and get some construction money flowing.

This the Legislature did.

But the second front is longer term. This crisis also presents an opportunity to finally get serious about diversifying our economy, rebuilding our public education system and making the changes needed to be ready for the 21st century's "new economy."

On this second front, lawmakers largely punted. That's a shame because it is not clear that conditions will be ripe for bold action in January.

If things have calmed down — even slightly — there will be fresh pressure not to upset the status quo; to simply wait it out. If things get worse, the job of the Legislature will be much more grim and immediate: dealing with the human toll of a major economic slide.

One idea that seems almost certain to hit the table in January is gambling. Supporters of gambling for Hawai'i will be able to make their argument under almost any economic condition.

But whether we are in an economic crisis mode or talking about building a new economic future, gambling simply does not make much sense.

As a form of economic diversification, gambling doesn't cut it. Hawai'i could never develop a gaming industry to rival the major centers such as Las Vegas. So why even try?

Yes, a few people may choose to travel to Hawai'i specifically because we offer gambling. But others will choose to skip the Islands precisely because we have joined the likes of Atlantic City, Nevada and other places where gambling is the lure.

It is also true that a casino or two would provide some jobs, tax revenue and opportunities for visitors to spend their money. But for the most part, those would be jobs, taxes or tourist dollars that would have been generated somewhere else. In other words, how much truly new money would gambling bring?

And if we are in a serious economic slump, casinos or other forms of legalized gambling would offer a cure and unrealistic glimmer of hope for people on hard times.

There is clearly a need for new ideas at the Capitol. Gambling isn't one of them.