City Takes Action Amid Lack of Statewide Regulation
Honolulu has introduced a trio of bills aimed at strengthening the fight against illegal gambling across the city. As Hawaii continues to lack a comprehensive framework for legal gambling, local lawmakers are stepping in to curb black-market activity through more aggressive legislative tools.
Bills 11, 12, and 13, recently brought forward by city officials, are designed to provide law enforcement with additional authority, create permit systems for electronic gaming equipment, and engage property owners in efforts to prevent illegal gambling operations.
Permit System and Penalties on the Table
Bill 11 proposes the introduction of a permit system to track electronic gambling machines throughout the city. Under this bill, all devices would need to be registered, with penalties outlined for non-compliance. This measure is aimed at increasing transparency and ensuring tighter control over machines often used in unauthorized operations.
Bill 12 supports enforcement by enabling the denial, suspension, or revocation of permits in cases where gambling violations are found. These mechanisms are intended to prevent repeat offenses and create a stronger deterrent against illegal gaming activities.
Landlords Empowered to Assist in Enforcement
Bill 13 gives property owners a legal path to take action when they suspect illegal gambling on their premises. With the support of the Honolulu Police Department, landlords can facilitate inspections and proceed with evictions if unlawful activities are discovered. This collaboration marks a proactive shift in the city’s strategy to cut off access to venues that may support unregulated gaming.
Hawaii Remains One of Few States Without Legal Gambling
Despite repeated attempts to establish a regulated gambling market in Hawaii, the state remains one of the few in the U.S. without any legal form of gambling. A recent push in early 2025 gained traction but ultimately stalled in April. This legislative failure continues to leave the state vulnerable to underground gambling enterprises.
Nonetheless, there is growing support among certain lawmakers who acknowledge the benefits of a regulated market. These include increased tax revenue, consumer protection, and more effective control over problem gambling and criminal enterprises.
Local Solutions in Absence of State Action
With no immediate signs of a statewide regulatory system, Honolulu’s municipal government is filling the gap by tightening local ordinances. These efforts aim to slow the growth of unregulated gambling while encouraging further legislative debate about the role of legal gambling in the state’s economic and social landscape.
Until Hawaii enacts broader reforms, cities like Honolulu are expected to continue implementing localized measures to curb illegal activity and protect community interests.
