Hawaii is planning to legalize gambling to fund the construction of a new stadium

Hawaii Governor Josh Green has noted a growing public support for the legalization of gambling in the state. Recent polls indicate that around 70% of residents favor such an initiative, provided that the revenue generated by casinos is directed towards community needs.
The discussion around gambling legalization has resurfaced amid efforts to advance a stadium renovation project. If the state cannot secure sufficient funding through traditional means, the prospect of opening a casino may become a pressing issue once again.
Governor Green emphasized that while the legalization of gambling is not a priority for lawmakers, it is being considered as a potential source of funding for the stadium project. Currently, the state has allocated $400 million for the demolition and renovation of the old facility, but additional investments are necessary to reach the project's ultimate goals.
Hawaii and Utah remain the only states in the U.S. where gambling is completely prohibited. Previous attempts to legalize casinos or other forms of entertainment have failed due to opposition from the government and community groups. In 2025, lawmakers introduced Bill SB1572, which aimed to establish a State Commission to regulate sports betting, combat illegal gambling, and protect consumer rights. However, this initiative was put on hold.
Opinions within the state remain divided. Some view casinos as a potential source of significant revenue, while others express concerns about possible social consequences. The future of gambling in Hawaii will depend on how lawmakers balance economic benefits with public sentiment in the coming months.
It is worth noting that the Koi tribe has received approval from the Biden administration to build a casino in Windsor.