Hawaii Moves Closer to Legalizing Online Sports Betting
Hawaii’s long-standing ban on sports betting may soon change, as lawmakers continue to debate HB 1308, a bill that would legalize online sports wagering in the state. The legislation recently passed several key committees in the House of Representatives and is now awaiting a full vote. Meanwhile, a companion bill, SB 1569, is under review in the Senate but faces challenges.
House Bill 1308: The Push for Online Sports Betting
HB 1308 aims to establish a regulated online sports betting market in Hawaii. The bill has already cleared the House Finance Committee, though not unanimously. Some members supported the proposal but voted with reservations, signaling concerns about potential social and economic risks.
The bill would introduce licensing requirements for sportsbook operators and place regulatory oversight under the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. However, lawmakers recently removed the proposed 10% tax rate and licensing fee, opting to analyze these aspects further before making a final decision.
During public hearings, opponents expressed concerns about problem gambling, financial hardship, and crime. In response, the bill includes provisions to create a dedicated fund for gambling addiction prevention and treatment. Additionally, only online betting would be allowed, and the state would limit the number of sportsbook licenses to four.
Senate Bill 1569: A Parallel Effort with Challenges
While HB 1308 progresses in the House, the Senate is considering SB 1569, a similar proposal. This bill would place sports betting regulation under the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism instead of the Commerce Department. However, SB 1569 has struggled to gain momentum, facing skepticism from lawmakers.
At the same time, other gambling-related bills, such as SB 893, which sought to legalize casinos, have failed to move forward due to strong opposition from government agencies and legal authorities.
What’s Next for Sports Betting in Hawaii?
The future of sports betting in Hawaii depends on the next legislative steps. The full House of Representatives must vote on HB 1308 before it can advance to the Senate. Meanwhile, SB 1569 remains under committee review, with its progress uncertain.
Lawmakers have until March 6 to pass bills from one chamber to the other, and the legislative session ends on May 2. If neither bill passes both chambers by then, Hawaii’s sports betting debate may be delayed for another year.
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