S.B. No. 893 - Summary

• Establishes the Hawaii Gaming Control Commission as a five-member body appointed by the governor to regulate casino gaming operations in Hawaii.

• Authorizes two 20-year casino licenses for freestanding facilities in the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District and Hawaii Convention Center only, with detailed application requirements and eligibility criteria.

• Imposes a 15% wagering tax on monthly gross receipts from casino gaming, with revenues deposited to the state general fund; retains up to 2% for compulsive gambler programs and commission administrative expenses.

• Requires a one-time $150 million license issuance fee ($75 million upfront and $75 million one year after opening) and a $200,000 bond from licensees; establishes application fees of $1,000,000 from applicants.

• Creates a State Gaming Fund to allocate revenues to education (15%), compulsive gambler programs, and commission operations; includes comprehensive licensing standards for suppliers and occupational positions; appropriates $5,000,000 for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to fund the commission.