Hawaiʻi Bill Banning Cash Purchases at Crypto Kiosks Awaits Governor’s Decision
By Mahealani Richardson | June 8, 2026
HONOLULU — A bill aimed at banning the use of cash to purchase cryptocurrency at kiosks in Hawai‘i is pending the approval of Governor Josh Green, who has until the end of June to submit his intent-to-veto list to the state Legislature.
The legislation, known as House Bill 1642, has sparked debate between supporters who cite rising crypto fraud losses in the state, and opponents who warn it could adversely impact low-income residents and small businesses.
What HB 1642 Proposes
HB 1642 would prohibit consumers from using cash at physical cryptocurrency kiosks to buy crypto. However, the bill would still permit consumers to cash out or sell cryptocurrency they already own via these kiosks.
State Representative Scot Matayoshi, chair of the House Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, emphasized that the bill is designed to protect kupuna — Hawai‘i’s elderly population — from scam artists who exploit crypto kiosks. Matayoshi, an attorney, recounted his personal experience narrowly avoiding a scam involving a fake court fine payment at a Safeway kiosk.
“The benefit to those very few people who prefer paying cash for crypto rather than using their phone or computer does not outweigh the massive amount of scam and illicit activity going through these crypto kiosks,” Matayoshi said.
Rising Crypto Scam Losses Prompt Legislative Action
AARP Hawaii is among the bill’s strongest supporters, characterizing crypto kiosks as a key tool used in fraud schemes. Craig Gima, AARP communications director, likened kiosks to a “getaway car” in criminal activity, explaining scammers often convince victims to withdraw cash from their bank accounts and then deposit it into crypto machines.
According to AARP, losses from cryptocurrency scams reported to the FBI in Hawai‘i have surged dramatically in recent years—from just under $1 million in 2024 to $3.85 million in 2025. The organization asserts the true figures are likely higher, as many scams go unreported. They also argue that the bill could ultimately save state resources by reducing fraud.
Opposition Cites Impact on Vulnerable Populations and Businesses
Hilt Ventures, Hawai‘i’s largest cryptocurrency ATM operator, runs 21 of the state’s 59 crypto kiosks located mostly in convenience stores. Owner and operator Chip Meyers cautioned that should the bill become law, it would force the closure of his Hawai‘i operations.
“This is going to hurt lower-income and middle-class people who are unbanked or underbanked, people who don’t have access to mainstream financial services or the ability to transact online,” Meyers said.
Meyers acknowledged that while his company has dealt with some scams totaling roughly $5,000 over the past year, they refunded affected customers and maintain protective measures specifically for users 55 and older.
“A lot of misinformation and hysteria has been used around this issue. We’re just trying to get the facts out,” Meyers remarked.
Governor’s Office Weighs Options
Governor Josh Green’s office stated that the governor will thoroughly review HB 1642 along with other bills before making final decisions, which will be announced in due course.
For now, the ultimate fate of the legislation hangs in the balance, with significant implications for consumer protection, financial inclusion, and local business operations across Hawai‘i.
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