Hawaii Senate Passes Bill for Online, Retail Betting

Hawaii's Senate has passed House Bill 1308, moving the state closer to legalizing online and retail sports betting, with the House needing to approve Senate amendments before sending it to Governor Josh Green for final approval. The bill, which includes provisions for responsible gambling measures and taxation, aims to launch a mobile-only market by December 31, 2025, with major operators like BetMGM and DraftKings expected to seek licenses. Hawaii would join states like Tennessee and Wyoming in offering online sports betting without in-person sportsbooks. Despite progress, the bill faces opposition from some lawmakers and groups concerned about gambling addiction and societal impacts. The proposed legislation would make Hawaii the 40th state to legalize sports betting, pending full legislative approval and the governor's signature.