House reads controversial poker proposal

Earlier in the legislative session, measures to allow gambling were deferred.

The current measure was re-written to classify poker as a game of skill, not chance, to exempt it from gambling laws.

Supporters say it’s a way to raise much-needed revenue in the wake of the disaster in Japan, and would not cause social problems.

"With all due respect, I don’t see how having the world series of poker will lead to foreclosures and meth addiction," said Rep. Angus McKelvey.

"Hawaii is Hawaii, and we don’t want to gamble with the Aloha spirit," said Rep. Cynthia Thielen. "We don’t want to gamble and put this out and say come here, we’re just like Las Vegas or the other places."

The measure passed Thursday’s voice vote, and will be heard next by the finance committee.