Is Online Gambling Legal in the State Of Hawaii?

  1. Legalizing Gambling In Hawaii
  2. Is There Legalized Gambling In Hawaii
  3. Legalizing Gambling In Hawaii
  4. Is There Legalized Gambling In Hawaii
  5. Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

A pair of state Senate bills hope to legalize gambling in Hawaii in order to provide funding for necessary programs statewide. Senate Bill 850 — which was carried over from the 2019 legislative. Hawaii statutes disallow almost every type of land-based gambling in the state, but online gambling is legal and safe for citizens. There are some great legal online gambling sites for Hawaii residents that offer everything from sports betting, to no-limit poker. Gambling Laws in Hawaii Hawaii has prohibited gambling since its formation in 1959, including within casinos, lottery, Daily Fantasy and sports betting. These are discussed at length on our Hawaii gambling page. The section of Hawaiian law pertaining to gambling is 712-1220 and states no goods or money can be exchanged in games. Why is gambling illegal in Hawaii? By Rnel-Bairieric There are just 2 states out of the 50 in America without any legalized betting: Utah and Hawaii.

Of all the States, only Hawaii and Utah have such comprehensive anti-gambling legislation. In the Island State, only social poker games where nobody makes a profit (not even from selling beverages) are allowed. That is it, no casinos, no charity gambling, no lottery and no sports. This article explains the Hawaii gambling laws (or rather anti-gambling laws) in detail.

First up below, a quick-fire overview of the history of gambling in this State can be found. This consists of heavyweight legislation and many busts. Next a game-by-game guide, which covers the specifics of what you can’t do. After that a legislative timeline can be found, including the key passages from the statute books. Finally, I have summarized the key points – and then speculated on how gambling in Hawaii might look in the future.

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Chumba Casino is available in Hawaii and gives players the chance to play online casino games for real cash prizes.

Hawaii Gambling Laws – A Brief History

This State was formed in 1959 – and gambling has been against the law ever since. In pre-State colony days, there was a horse-racing scene, and I am sure many bets were laid on the black market on those races. These declined and stopped in the 1940’s and efforts to legislate have met with no success since.

Periodically, headlines scream of big busts of just about every kind of gambling you can think of. These include a ‘Lottery Queen’, a major indicted in connection gambling extortion, a sports-betting ring getting busted and the seizure of gambling machines. If nothing else this shows that there is still a significant appetite among Hawaiians for gambling, even if their government shows no signs of budging on the legal perspective.

Most recently, there have been bills introduced in 2010 and 2012 requesting that a study be done into setting up a casino and the regulation of online poker respectively. These caused a stir in the media – but did not get far through the legislative process before being killed off.

Hawaii Gambling Laws – An Overview of Which Gambling Games Are Legal

Casino Games: No, like most forms of gambling, this is strictly against the law in Hawaii – the closest legal US casino by distance would be in the State of California.

Online Casinos: No, online gambling is covered by the broad definition of what constitutes a gambling game in this State. Basically any game with a chance element, and some risk / reward, even if skill can materially affect the outcome.

Live Poker: Yes, you can play poker socially in Hawaii. There are strict rules surrounding social poker games. No profit can be taken by any house or individual organizer. This extends to profiting by selling food or beverages, which rules out pub leagues which are popular even in conservative States like Utah where poker is also social-only.

Online Poker: No, there have been some recent bills which would regulate online poker games – though these have not made it far through the legislative process before being killed off.

Sports Betting: No, there are no racetracks or pari-mutuel betting machines. Hawaii has a rich history of horse racing, starting in the 1800’s and continuing until the end of the 1940’s when this died out.

Lottery Betting: No, this is one of the few states which does not have a lottery nor participate in any inter-State lottery programs.

Bingo Games: No, there are not even any provisions for charitable raffle or bingo gambling in Hawaii.

Hawaii Gambling Laws – Timeline of Key Statutes

The main gambling provisions have remained largely unchanged since the State joined the US in 1959. Unlike in other States, any amendments have strengthened the anti-gambling rules – rather than allowed certain types of gambling to occur. Like many legal definitions, the ones Hawaii uses is broad enough to make sure that fans of any particular game can’t say that they are not covered. Here are the key pieces:

First their broad definition of gambling:

[su_quote cite=”Chapter 712-1220″ url=”http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/vol14_ch0701-0853/hrs0712/hrs_0712-1220.htm”]A person engages in gambling if he stakes or risks something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event not under his control or influence, upon an agreement or understanding that he or someone else will receive something of value in the event of a certain outcome.[/su_quote]

Then, just in case you were about to play the ‘skill game’ card, their definition of a Game of Chance puts that one to bed:

[su_quote]”Contest of chance” means any contest, game, gaming scheme, or gaming device in which the outcome depends in a material degree upon an element of chance, notwithstanding that skill of the contestants may also be a factor therein.[/su_quote]

There is no getting around it, even the definition of a gambling device (also illegal) is broad enough to cover just about anything.

There have been some recent attempts at legislation for gambling, though to date these have been killed off very early in the legislative process and have not gotten to committee – let alone had the opportunity to be put to the popular vote. Here are some examples:

1959: A bill is introduced to bring back Horse Racing via a track on the island of Maui, this did not pass the house of representatives.

Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

2010: Separate bills to investigate the setup of a committee to oversee an investigation into the viability of casino gambling and a proposal to set up a State lottery. Neither bill made it as far as the floor.

2012: A bill (number 2242) requesting the setup of another committee, this time to look into the regulation of online poker is submitted – again, it is killed off before there is a chance of a serious debate.

Talk of yet more bills periodically gets the poker press excited. Experienced commentators suggest otherwise, that the opposition to gambling is strong enough in the Island State to ensure keep the status-quo for the foreseeable future.

Hawaii Gambling Laws – Summary and a Look into The Future

Along with Utah, this is the strictest anti-gambling State of all, with only social poker games allowed for residents. One thing to bear in mind is that individual participants in gambling games are rarely affected by the regular busts and crack-downs – which are aimed at the organizers and profiteers. Residents wishing to gamble at offshore operators may be breaking the law in the strict sense, though they are doing so with minimal risk of being personally prosecuted. Please take legal advice before making your own decision on whether to play online poker at offshore sites from Hawaii.

The most likely future scenario for Hawaii is no change. If there is an (unlikely) drop off in tourism income then change might be possible – at the moment this State appears very happy with the current no-gambling situation.

Useful Resources:

State Laws

Wiki History (mentions horse racing)

State legislature

LegalGamblingUSA.com - Legal Online Gambling Guide By State - Legal Online Gambling In The State Of Hawaii

Even though Hawaii is a hot vacation destination, the restrictive laws leave many questions regarding legal online gambling for Hawaii residents. The state has effectively banned almost every form of gambling in the state, but this is just from a land-based perspective. You can still gamble on the Internet, as the legalities of online gambling in Hawaii have not been clearly defined. Instead, you will be able to partake in your favorite forms of gambling by using reputable offshore gambling sites that accept Hawaii residents. We are here to explain why it is not a crime for you to gamble online, as well as where you can gamble on the Internet. Provided you follow our advice, you should always be able to find a way to hit the games and have some fun.

Betting on the Kentucky Derby in Hawaii

The Kentucky Derby is the most popular event in all of horse racing and although those living in Hawaii are far away from the action, they don’t have to miss out on being able to place wagers on the race. Hawaii is one of the more conservative states when it comes to sports betting as they’ve banned most avenues of gambling. However, the state has not banned any forms of online gambling. Thus, giving Hawaiian thoroughbred bettors the option to place legal bets on the Kentucky Derby.

Mobile NFL Betting in Hawaii

Hawaii residents have not been shy about their fervor for NFL football even though there are no professional teams located in the state. There not being any retail sportsbooks on the many islands of Hawaii make finding a way to bet on the National Football League a hassle. This is where mobile NFL betting comes into play. Mobile betting allows users to place bets or add/withdraw funds from any mobile device that is connected to a reliable internet source. No matter your location in Hawaii betting on from a phone, laptop, or tablet is simply just a few finger taps away.

Live NFL Betting in Hawaii

In-game betting on the NFL has become one of the most common bet types for football bettors in Hawaii. An example of live betting on an NFL game is taking Tom Brady to throw a touchdown pass to Mike Evans in the fourth quarter. This bet likely couldn’t be placed before the start of the game, but bettors checking props during the game would be able to cash in on this prop and this is why live betting is vital. It allows bettors to see and feel how a game is being played first before placing a bet, which gives more of an advantage to bettors.

Online Gambling Age For Hawaii Residents

Legalizing Gambling In Hawaii

Since Hawaii has not technically authorized any form of gambling, there is no written age limited required to gamble. Since this is the case, you cannot actually gamble online until you turn 21. We do not recommend attempting to bypass this age limit, as you can get into some trouble.

Hawaii Online Gambling Laws

Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

When we decided to look into the different statutes related to gambling in Hawaii, we found no law that mentions online gambling. There are no statutes that specifically mention using the internet to bet on table games, poker, slots, or any other type of traditional gambling. With the Supreme Court making the decision to overturn PASPA, many are wondering what this means specifically for online sports betting in Hawaii. Even though the federal ban has been lifted, there have not been any regulatory efforts to legalize sports betting. That being said, it could happen in the future but there has been no indication as to when.

As it stands, Hawaii has not legalized nor prohibited any type of internet gaming. For that reason, Hawaiians are not breaking any laws that have yet to be written on the books. You can review the Hawaii Statues and look through the various gambling offenses for confirmation.

Gambling Sites That Accept Hawaii Residents

There are several types of gambling that can be found online, and we are aiming to show you the four most popular. You will find so many options for play that you will have the Vegas-style experience without actually leaving home. Hawaiians will find that there are plenty of options on hand for casino gambling, sports betting, poker play, and bingo halls. All of these options offer diversity, the ability to win, and even secure transactions.

Bovada: Online Casino Tops The List


With all your funds in your Bovada account, there are many ways that it can be played besides betting on sports. With a great online casino right there as an option, this another good way you can flip your winnings. With so many different casino games, there are promotions every day for different games like blackjack and slots. So there is no reason for your funds to be just sitting in your account waiting for another sport to start up! You can put your money in this casino and win money and earn promotions while doing it! To make things even sweeter, you do have the chance to have a live dealer as well! The choice of who is yours as well! Go To Bovada!

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Online Casinos That Accept Hawaii Residents

Online casinos are direct, virtual copies of live casinos, with various themes for slots, every table game imaginable, and various types of video poker. You will have a lot of fun if you like casino gaming, so enjoy the games. Nothing has been left out of these games, and you will find that the options are infinite. Slots.lv is one of the best online casinos that accept Hawaii residents, but you will also have a fun experience at Lucky Red Casino.

Online Sports Betting Sites That Accept Hawaii Residents

When it comes to sports betting, you will be able to turn to various online sportsbooks. These sportsbooks allow you to put money on all of your favorite sporting events, whether it be NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, surfing, boxing, golf, or any other televised sport. In fact, you will find this even easier than being at a live sportsbook, as the options are nearly unlimited. For the best online sports betting in Hawaii, shop lines at Bovada or 5Dimes.

Online Poker Sites That Accept Hawaii Residents

The poker rooms available are some of the most impressive. Whether you are a casual player or just someone who wants to play a few games here and there, you will have no trouble actually participating in various styles of poker. The online poker sites that accept Hawaii residents have games ranging from Hold 'em to Omaha and more. Three online poker sites to try out are BetOnline, SportsBetting, and Bovada.

Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

Online Bingo Sites That Accept Hawaii Players

With even bingo being a crime in the state of Hawaii, you will be able to turn to the online bingo halls in order to play these games and earn some real money. Provided you are willing to risk a little money, you will be able to have fun playing this most famous game. Downtown Bingo is one of the online bingo sites that accept Hawaii players, and you are guaranteed to find huge jackpots, even bigger bonuses, and a wide range of real money bingo rooms to join.

Is Online Gambling Legal In Hawaii?

Hawaii has been one of the more restrictive states in the country in terms of gambling for a long time now, but legal online gambling in Hawaii was actually considered by the state several times. Hawaii is currently one of two states (Utah) that has no option to do any gambling at all in the United States.

Hawaii's gambling laws may ban land-based gambling, but they are not actually making it a crime to gamble online, as far as we can tell. Hawaii's legislature has not banned gambling from taking place, so you will not have to stress the legal issues. Players are freely able to pay without fear of the law.

Is It Safe For Players In Hawaii To Gamble On The Internet?

Anyone that wants to gamble online in the state of Hawaii doesn't have anything to fret over as this practice is safe for all Hawaii residents. And, to make this even safer we have prepared a list of sites on this page that Hawaiians can trust because these websites have been accepting American bettors for decades. These online gambling sites are regulated overseas and have held remote gaming licenses for years. What this means is that all of the online gambling sites for Hawaii residents that we have listed are trusted, have been in business for a while, and continually grow their player base. You don't keep getting bigger by cheating players and not paying out.

Are Online Casinos Legal In Hawaii?

Hawaiians will find that online casinos are the only way for you to actually participate in this form of gambling without having to leave your home. If you do not want to hop on a plane just to hit a slot machine, you can very easily turn on your computer and get involved with the games. There are no laws that make offshore casino gambling illegal.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal In Hawaii?

Is There Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

Sports betting is even further from Hawaii than a casino, so you have no choice but to turn to the Internet to hit the odds. Thankfully, the law is not going to make it a crime for you to gamble on sports over the Internet. The options are all based offshore due to the fact that you can very easily jump on your computer, or your mobile device, and play the odds.

Article: Is online sports betting legal in the USA?

Is Online Poker Legal In Hawaii?

Hawaiians may be able to participate in social poker games, but they also have the ability to play poker for higher stakes by turning to the online poker rooms that operate safely and legally by way of the Internet.

Online Racebook Betting Sites that accept Hawaii Residents

If you are looking for online racebook betting sites that accept Hawaii residents, the sites we have reviewed on this page all fall within those specifications. They offer players betting opportunities on horse races all over the country and that includes the big name races like the Kentucky Derby. Enjoy rebates on lost wagers, a variety of banking options to choose from, and 24-hour customer service. It’ truly the best way to gamble on horses in Hawaii.

Is Horse Racing Betting Available In Hawaii?

Horse racing betting is available in Hawaii but only if you are using offshore gambling sites that have racebooks. As we mentioned, Hawaii is pretty strict with their gambling laws so do not attempt to bet on horse racing inside the state. Offshore racebooks are more than capable of satisfying all of your betting needs and they are legally licensed and regulated overseas.

Deposit Options For Hawaii Residents

The deposit options for Hawaii residents vary depending on the site you are using but the top options usually include credit and debit card deposits, bitcoin, money orders, and more. Once you sign up for an account you can deposit your money immediately. All you do is decide on your method, select the amount you want to put in and you are good to go. The process may vary a bit depending on the site you are using but not much.

Mobile Betting Apps In Hawaii

Mobile betting options in Hawaii are offered at the top online betting sites. They allow players to bet using their mobile device by way of an app or mobile web address. With internet gambling already being such an easy and convenient way to place bets, mobile betting in Hawaii makes it even more so.

Legalizing Gambling In Hawaii

Hawaii Betting FAQ’s

What Federal Laws Affect Sports Gambling?

Is There Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

The federal Wire Act and the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) are the only laws that impact online sports gambling. The Wire Act, passed in 1961, banned wire communication technologies from being used on sports betting but does not apply to offshore operators or states that offer legal sports wagering. The UIGEA is a banking law that prevents U.S. banks from processing payments to unregulated gambling sites. This is why credit card deposits may occasionally get declined, because legal Hawaii gambling sites are all based offshore. Neither law makes sports gambling illegal, and there are no penalties for bettors.

What Sports Teams Can I Bet On In Hawaii?

It depends on the method you are using as they all vary. The fastest payouts are with bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, with winnings credited within 48 hours. Methods like checks or bank wires can take a week or so to arrive. Check the Online Cashier page of the betting site for delivery speeds.

How Long Do Payouts Take At Online Gambling Sites?

It depends on the method you are using as they all vary. Some methods take just a few hours or days, while others could take weeks.

Legalized Gambling In Hawaii

Will I go to jail for online gambling in Hawaii?

The risk of arrest is not something you have to worry about when it comes to Internet gambling. Even if some are under the impression that online gambling is a crime, this is simply not the case. The only real possibility for jail time would be if you attempted to launch your own bookmaking site, which is 100% against the law and not encouraged.

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