Legalized gambling and casinos is a topic that surfaces annually in the state
Hawaii lawmakers are preparing for another round of debate over gambling policy as the state legislature gets back to work. Several bills touching on casinos, lotteries, and enforcement are under discussion. The conversations mark renewed momentum in a state that has long resisted legal gambling of any kind.
The Aloha State remains one of only two states without legal gambling, alongside Utah. That could change after failed attempts in 2025 opened the door for fresh proposals. Last year’s efforts stalled over disagreements tied to taxes and licensing, but the ideas did not disappear. Instead, they carried into the current session with new variations.
One of the most talked-about measures is Senate Bill 893, introduced by Sen. Dru Kanuha. The bill would create a Hawaii Gaming Control Commission and allow limited casino licenses near the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District and the Hawaii Convention Center. A 15% tax on casino revenue would help fund state programs, including gambling addiction services.
Not everyone is on board with that vision. House Bill 1527, introduced by Reps. Andrew Garrett and Greggor Ilagan, would block casinos from being built on or near state-controlled stadium land. It also seeks to separate gambling operations from University of Hawaii athletic venues, while still allowing standard advertising deals.
Beyond legislation, a Tourism and Gaming Working Group has begun studying the broader impact of legalized gambling. The group is tasked with reporting findings ahead of the 2027 session, signaling that any major change is still years away. Early meetings showed familiar divisions between economic arguments and social concerns.
Lawmakers are also focusing on illegal gambling already operating across the islands. Officials estimate dozens of unlicensed game rooms remain active, generating large daily cash flows.
