Hawaii’s Gambling Debate: Casinos Rejected, iGaming Hangs in the Balance

Hawaii remains firm in its stance against gambling, shutting down attempts to introduce casinos while keeping discussions on online betting and iGaming alive, albeit with uncertain prospects.

Casino Proposal Officially Dismissed

Efforts to bring commercial casinos to Hawaii have been struck down once again. Senate Bill 893, which proposed the development of two casino resorts—one in the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District and another at the Hawaii Convention Center—has been indefinitely deferred by the Senate Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection. The bill, introduced in January by Senate Majority Leader Dru Kanuha (D-Hawaii County), encountered strong opposition from residents, the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, and Attorney General Anne Lopez.

Committee Chair Lynn DeCoite (D-Maui County) announced the decision on February 13, emphasizing that public testimony was overwhelmingly against the proposal.

Given the widespread disapproval, the idea of casino gambling in Hawaii appears to be off the table for the foreseeable future.

iGaming and Sports Betting Still in Play

Although the casino bill has been dismissed, two other gambling-related proposals—Senate Bill 1569 and Senate Bill 1507—are still under consideration.

SB 1569, backed by DeCoite and multiple bipartisan lawmakers, aims to legalize online sports betting with a 10% tax on revenue. The bill has already passed the Senate Economic Development and Technology Committee with a unanimous 5-0 vote and awaits further scrutiny from DeCoite’s Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee. However, opposition remains strong, with groups like the Honolulu Police Department, Attorney General Lopez, and concerned community members voicing their resistance.

SB 1507, introduced by Senate President Ronald Kouchi (D-Kauai County), seeks to legalize online casino gaming, including slot machines, poker, and instant lottery games. While the bill has been referred to the Senate Economic Development and Technology Committee, it has yet to be formally reviewed. Given Hawaii’s historically strict anti-gambling laws, its prospects appear dim.

Hawaii’s Strict Gambling Ban Holds Firm

Hawaii is one of only two U.S. states—alongside Utah—that bans all forms of legal gambling. Unlike other states that have embraced sports betting and casino gaming, Hawaii continues to reject such initiatives, maintaining a long-standing opposition to gambling expansion.

Some advocates argue that Hawaii’s rigid stance benefits Nevada, particularly Las Vegas, where a significant number of Hawaiians reside and vacation. Las Vegas is often referred to as Hawaii’s “Ninth Island” due to its popularity among islanders, and several casinos cater to Hawaiian visitors with island-themed offerings.

What’s Next for Gambling in Hawaii?

Despite growing trends toward gambling legalization across the U.S., Hawaii remains unlikely to change its position. The rejection of SB 893 underscores the difficulties gambling legislation faces in the state. While iGaming and sports betting bills remain on the table, they too face significant hurdles, making legalization in the near future an uphill battle.

End-to-End Professional Services For The Gambling Industry

Expert iGaming Mergers and Acquisitions Advisory Services