Hawaii sports betting bill advances in Senate
State makes move to legalise sports wagering and fantasy sports contests.
Key points:
-The Hawaii Senate has passed HB1308, progressing efforts to legalise sports betting and fantasy sports
-The bill establishes licensing requirements, tax rates and regulatory oversight for sports wagering operators, with implementation set for mid-2025
The Hawaii Senate has approved an amended version of House Bill 1308 (HB1308), moving the state closer to regulating and legalising sports wagering. The bill aims to permit online sports betting and fantasy sports contests.
The bill, introduced by Representatives Holt, Kila and Todd, provides a regulatory framework for sports wagering operators and suppliers. It specifies a general excise tax on operators’ gross receipts, which will be used to fund the state’s Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment Special Fund.
Having passed the Senate, HB1308 will now return to the House for review of the amendments. If the amendments are approved, the bill will move to Governor Josh Green for potential signing into law. The measure aims to establish a controlled and legal environment for sports betting in Hawaii.
Good to know: If the House agrees to the Senate’s amendments, Governor Josh Green will have the opportunity to sign HB1308 into law, allowing for the launch of online sports betting by 1 July 2025
HB1308 outlines a 10% tax rate on sports wagering revenues, a fee of $250,000 (£200,000) for operators and the creation of a Problem Gambling Prevention and Treatment Special Fund administered by the Department of Health. The Department of Law Enforcement will oversee regulation and conduct criminal history checks on applicants.
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