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Bill

SB 653

RELATING TO NUISANCE ABATEMENT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino and 5 co-sponsors

SB 653 empowers local governments to tackle gambling-related nuisances through clearer guidelines and mandatory fines, enhancing community safety and quality of life.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
#gamblingoffenses #mandatoryfine #nuisanceabatement
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Bill Summary · SB 653

Summary of SB 653: Relating to Nuisance Abatement

Introduction

Senate Bill 653 (SB 653) was introduced on January 17, 2025, and is currently under consideration by the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JDC) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees. This bill addresses issues related to nuisance abatement, particularly in the context of gambling offenses.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 653 is to enhance the mechanisms for abating nuisances associated with gambling activities. The bill aims to provide local authorities with the tools necessary to address and mitigate the negative impacts of gambling-related nuisances on communities.

Key Provisions

  • Nuisance Abatement: The bill establishes clearer guidelines for local governments to identify and abate nuisances linked to gambling activities. This includes defining what constitutes a nuisance in this context.
  • Mandatory Fines: SB 653 proposes the implementation of mandatory fines for establishments or individuals found to be in violation of the nuisance provisions related to gambling. The specifics of these fines, including amounts and enforcement procedures, will be detailed in subsequent legislative discussions.
  • Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill outlines the processes through which local authorities can enforce nuisance abatement measures, including the ability to issue citations and pursue legal action against violators.

Affected Parties

  • Local Governments: Municipalities will gain additional authority to address gambling-related nuisances, potentially leading to improved community safety and quality of life.
  • Gambling Establishments: Businesses involved in gambling may face increased scrutiny and potential financial penalties if found to be contributing to nuisance conditions.
  • Community Members: Residents in areas affected by gambling activities may benefit from enhanced local enforcement and reduced nuisance conditions.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:

    • January 17, 2025: SB 653 was introduced and passed its first reading.
    • January 23, 2025: The bill was referred to the JDC and WAM committees for further consideration.

  • Companion Bill: SB 653 has a companion bill, House Bill 669 (HB 669), which may address similar issues or provide additional context to the proposed changes.

Conclusion

SB 653 represents a legislative effort to address the challenges posed by gambling-related nuisances in communities. By establishing clearer guidelines and enforcement mechanisms, the bill aims to empower local governments to take action against disruptive gambling activities, thereby enhancing community welfare. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details regarding fines and enforcement procedures will be clarified.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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