Bill > HB1308

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for sports wagering in Hawaii, allowing licensed operators to conduct sports betting through mobile applications and digital platforms. The bill defines key terms such as "sports wagering" (which includes various types of bets like single-game bets, parlays, and in-game wagering) and creates a licensing system administered by the Department of Law Enforcement. Operators must obtain a sports wagering operator license, which costs $250,000 and is valid for five years, and are subject to strict regulatory requirements including maintaining monitoring systems to detect suspicious betting activities, preventing underage gambling, and displaying problem gambling helpline information. The bill also creates a Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment Special Fund, which will receive 7% of sports wagering tax revenues to support counseling and education programs. Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to clarify that sports wagering and fantasy sports contests are not considered gambling, imposes a 10% tax on adjusted gross sports wagering receipts, and allows for criminal background checks on licensees. The legislation is designed to provide a regulated, controlled environment for sports betting while mitigating potential negative social impacts, with a planned implementation date of July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1308&year=2025