Hawaii moves closer to legalizing online sports betting
Despite strong opposition from state agencies and Native Hawaiian groups, Hawaii taking a big step toward legalizing online sports betting.The Senate Joint Committee on...
Hawaii sports betting bill faces uncertain future
Hawaii’s latest attempt to legalize online sports betting is facing some serious opposition.
After the House rejected changes made by the Senate, House Bill 1308’s future is uncertain. Lawmakers are split on key issues like how the industry would be taxed, how much operators should pay to get licensed, and how the state would regulate something it has zero experience with. Without progress soon, the bill could miss this legislative session entirely, pushing the effort back yet again.
Hawaii, together with Utah, is one of just two states with no legal gambling of any kind. No casinos, no lottery. Past efforts to introduce betting have always run into strong cultural and social opposition. Many worry it could lead to addiction or crime or just change the fabric of local communities.
Companies like DraftKings and BetMGM are watching closely, eager to break into what they see as a rare, untapped market. The Senate approved a version of the bill earlier this year, but the House didn’t agree with key changes.
Now, it’s up to a conference committee to find a middle ground before the session ends on May 1.
Supporters say it’s a chance to regulate and benefit from something already happening underground, but whether lawmakers can get on the same page in time remains to be seen.
Hawaii governor questions newly-proposed casino
Slot machines and poker games are currently illegal in Hawaii, and the state does not have any lotteries or any casinos. This will however change shortly after the new casino...
