Just saw this on another poker blog I subscribe to. I travel to Hawaii frequently for business, so this hits particularly close to home for me. The really weird thing is that Hawaii is only state in the nation that doesn't currently have any form of legalized gambling. No horse tracks, lottery, indian gaming casinos, bingo, or even raffles are allowed. Seriously. In any case, Go Hawai'i!
"The legal world of poker is watching the beautiful islands of Hawaii very closely. There is a bill facing the Hawaiian senate that would alter the face of Hawaiian gaming operations and have a significant impact on the US market. Potentially, the bill could become the stepping stone to challenge the UIGEA directly. This would have legal ramifications across the country and possibly globally.
The bill, as it stands currently in a draft form, recognizes poker as a game of skill instead of chance. This change in perception would make poker games except from any of the gambling statutes. This possible exception includes the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act. Such a move places firm attention on the island state and scrutiny about related choices.
This bill, should it pass, would also legalize online poker. As such, operators and businesses would be invited to set up platforms, servers and the like on one of the islands. The jobs that would stem from the businesses alone would create an economic boom in the area. Covering all aspects, this drafted bill would also set up licensing framework and requirements. In its current state, the bill is prepared to set up live and online poker events, while protecting the decision in a manner benefiting the Hawaiian people. One major poker powerhouse, Full Tilt Poker, has expressed interest in the possibility of locating offices in Hawaii.
The bill would also invite live tournament directors to hold events on the beautiful islands. The islands would easily become host to some of the biggest global poker tours and events."
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