Hawaii House Approves Online Sportsbooks Bill to Senate

Hawaii residents who are looking for online sportsbook options are one step closer to having ones within their territory. House Bill 1308 (HB 1308) was recently passed by the House committee, thanks to a 35-15 vote favoring its approval.

Among the lawmakers who voted yes, only three had reservations. Rep. Daniel Holt, the bill’s sponsor, has carried sports betting bills for multiple sessions. This is the first time a sports betting bill has gotten out of the house.

What are the Main Proponents of Hawaii’s HB 1308?

HB 1308 strives for the regulation of sports wagering by the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Part of its regulation is the creation and enforcement of licensing requirements for sports wagering operators and sports wagering suppliers. 

HB 1308 would allow a minimum of four sports betting platforms to be licensed by the state, effective July 1, 2025. Moreover, it would allow a minimum of four sports betting platforms to be licensed by the state, effective July 1, 2025. 

Fantasy sports would also be legalized under their own vertical. HB 1308 also specifies that legal sports wagering and fantasy sports contests shall not be considered contests of chance or gambling.

Companion Bill Currently in Limbo in the Senate

Senate Bill 1569 (SB 1569), HB 1308’s companion bill, was deferred by the senate consumer protection/ways and means committee. It was endorsed back on February 26, 2025, but discussions with it have stalled. 

With HB 1308 getting the nod from the House, the jury is still out if this momentum will also affect SB 1569’s chances. Last week, the Finance Committee voted in favor of HB 1308 12-3. But half of the yes votes came with reservations. 

The group approved a number of amendments, including scratching the recommended licensing fee ($250,000 for a five-year license) and the suggested tax rate (10%) and leaving those numbers blank in the bill’s revised text.

Rep. Holt supported those amendments and said on Tuesday that he is willing to consider different fees and tax rates.