Hawaii, one of only two US states to block all forms of gambling, is currently debating whether to allow regulated casino gaming and sports betting. Several Bills are being lobbied to introduce Hawaii casinos to the general public.

If these Bills pull through the legislative process, it would be historic. Those promoting the Bills argue for the various economic benefits that a legalized casino and online gaming market can fetch the state. It remains to be seen if this argument will be enough in the long run.

Legislative push for gambling legalization in Hawaii

The Hawaii State Legislature has received several Bills to create a legal gambling framework for the state. One of those championing this move is Senator Glenn Wakai. He has proposed a 20-year casino licensing program for sites within the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District and the Hawaii Convention Center.

The plan also seeks to establish a Hawaii Gaming Control Commission to supervise all gambling activities. The commission would then impose a 15% tax on gross gaming receipts and use the proceeds to generate revenue for state programs.
Another vital provision of the Bill is the creation of a state gaming fund that would help education, infrastructure, and social services.

As per Senate Bill 893, a compulsive gambling assistance program will be developed via funds from the tax revenue. This would help address the potential social risks linked to gambling activities.

Casino and sports betting proposals on the table

Several Bills have been submitted in Hawaii which would bring sweeping changes to the state’s casino gaming scene. SB 1507 seeks to set up the Hawaii Lottery and Gaming Corporation. This body would regulate gambling activities like casino gaming, online poker, lottery, and skill-based daily fantasy sports.

The potential passage of these Bills will provide legal backing for the operation of retail and online casino gaming across the state. This would effectively place Hawaii among the increasing number of US states with regulated online gambling markets.

There is growing optimism that these Bills will receive a fair hearing and produce a favorable outcome for the gambling industry.

Senate Bill 1572: Sports Betting Commission

As these Bills take shape in the legislative outlet, another proposal, SB 1572, is gaining momentum with industry players. If passed, this proposal would help set up the Hawaii State Sports Wagering Commission. This body would be responsible for operating online and retail sports betting in the state while administering a 15% tax on the operators.

Two other Hawaii sports betting Bills: HB 1308 and SB 1569 are also in the works. These Bills target online sports betting and propose a lower 10% tax rate. This adds to the growing list of proposed and active Bills seeking to establish a legal framework for
online sportsbooks
and casinos in Hawaii.

Potential economic and social impact

Some of the major arguments posed by the supporters of these Bills hinge on the economic benefits of legal casino gaming in the state. They argue that Hawaii is missing out on millions of dollars of potential tax revenue to other states, Las Vegas for example, or offshore sportsbooks and casino sites. A regulated gaming industry in Hawaii would mean the state retains this money to fund vital programs like healthcare and education.

On the other side of the argument, those opposing the Bills have expressed concern about the potential risks of gambling, including addiction, financial hardship, and other social issues that may arise. They fear that easy access to gambling may bring financial distress to the most vulnerable families in the state. Then, there are doubts about the capacity of Hawaii’s markets to sustain profitable casino resorts.

The future of gambling in Hawaii

As both sides continue to set out their arguments, be it for or against a regulated gambling sector in Hawaii, those at the center of it all have their work cut out. Before these proposals become law there will be further hearings, amendments, and public input throughout the legislative process, so there is a long road ahead.

The coming months will be interesting, for sure. We could start seeing Hawaii’s first casinos and legal online sportsbooks later this year. Alternatively, the status quo would remain, and Hawaii would retain its reputation as one of the few gambling free states in the USA.