The possibility of legalizing online sports betting in Hawaii has advanced. Recently, HB 1308, a bill that may open the door for regulated online sports betting in Hawaii, was approved by the state’s House Committee on Economic Development and Technology. Hawaii News Now reported locally that there was no dissent to the committee’s decision during the in-person voting.
Supporters Highlight Potential Benefits
This move marks a significant milestone for online gambling in the state, which has seen previous proposals from State Representative Daniel Holt fail to gain traction. However, HB 1308 has garnered substantial support from proponents who argue that legalizing sports betting could provide much-needed tax revenue. This revenue, they suggest, could be allocated to gambling addiction programs and used to combat illegal gaming activities throughout Hawaii.
In the broader context of state-level gambling legislation, Hawaii’s efforts align with ongoing changes in other U.S. states that are embracing online gaming and sports betting. As the industry continues to grow, Hawaii’s potential entry into the market would signal a shift in the state’s stance on gambling.
In a related development, Indiana is moving forward with its own gambling legislation. The Indiana House Public Policy Committee recently passed two major bills: one that would legalize iGaming and iLottery, and another that would permit veterans organizations and bars to house electronic pull-tab machines. House Bill 1432, the iGaming and iLottery bill, passed with a vote of 9-2, while House Bill 1433, the pull tab machines bill, was approved unanimously by a 13-0 vote.
Under House Bill 1432, online sports betting would face a tax rate of 20%, while retail sports betting would remain taxed at 9.5%. The bill also includes provisions to establish live dealer online table games within Indiana’s studios. This move aims to enhance efforts to collect unpaid child support from gaming jackpot winners and improve awareness of the state’s gambling problem hotline, 800-9-WITH-IT.
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