The Senate has voted 7-1 to override Governor Arnold I. Palacios’ veto of a bill aimed at legalizing internet gaming and establishing a stablecoin on the island of Tinian.
Senator Celina R. Babauta of Saipan cast the only dissenting vote, while Senator Corina L. Magofna, also from Saipan, was excused.
Sponsored by Tinian senators Karl King-Nabors, Frank Q. Cruz, and Jude U. Hofschneider, Senate Local Bill 24-1 now heads to the 20-member House of Representatives and to become law, the House must also override the governor’s veto by a two-thirds majority.
Governor Palacios vetoed the bill last month based on legal advice from Attorney General Edward E. Manibusan, who argued the measure went beyond the legislative authority of the Tinian delegation, as internet gaming and digital currency could impact areas beyond the Second Senatorial District.
In Friday’s session, Senate Floor Leader Donald M. Manglona of Rota initiated the override motion. King-Nabors passionately defended the bill, saying it would provide an “efficient way to oversee online gaming,” adding that stablecoin use enhances transparency.
According to King-Nabors, this transparency would help the Tinian Casino Gaming Control Commission effectively apply federal anti-money laundering, banking, and tax regulations.
“This legislation stands at a moment in time when we’re experiencing considerable economic hardship,” said King-Nabors. “It’s difficult facing repeated obstacles when trying to incentivize revenue streams that don’t negatively impact our environment, require physical infrastructure, or stress our limited resources.”
However, Senator Babauta expressed significant reservations. While supportive of Tinian’s push for economic independence, she highlighted concerns about insufficient resources and expertise to effectively manage online gaming and stablecoin operations.
“I don’t believe gambling should always be our default solution,” Babauta said. “Gambling introduces many social issues, and I remain cautious in supporting such bills.”
With Tinian’s economy still recovering from pandemic setbacks, proponents argue the legislation is vital for the island’s economic diversification.
The House’s decision in the coming weeks will determine whether Tinian becomes a pioneering jurisdiction in regulated internet gaming and stablecoin implementation.
