 |
 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bingo legal in Hawaii?
No. Bingo games are a form of gaming that is illegal in Hawaii. Illegal gambling occurs when the following criteria are met:
- There is a CONSIDERATION or item of value wagered.
- There is an element of CHANCE involved.
- There is a REWARD or item of value won.
Bingo is illegal in Hawaii because it meets these criteria. You must purchase cards from the house to play - CONSIDERATION. It is random CHANCE which numbers are called. If you win, you receive something of value or a REWARD.
Are raffles legal in Hawaii?
No. Raffles are not legal if you must purchase tickets to participate - CONSIDERATION. It is random CHANCE which numbers are called. If your number is called, you receive something of value or REWARD.
Games where tickets are given out to everyone without them having to pay and the organizer receives no type of CONSIDERATION are legal, e.g., games promoted by businesses where you can win something and no purchase is necessary.
What is social gambling?
Gambling is considered "social" in nature when it meets ALL of the following criteria:
- All parties involved must compete on equal terms with each other.
- No player receives anything of value other than his personal winnings.
- No other person can receive anything of value or any profit from any source.
- It is not conducted or played at any business establishment of any kind or at any public area. Social gambling may only take place in non-public areas.
- None of the players are below the age of 18.
- The gambling is not bookmaking - accepting bets from people on the outcome of future events or games.
