Hawaii, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, might soon open doors to yet another popular attraction: casinos.

Its lawmakers, desperately searching for ways to cover huge budget deficits, are currently pushing through legislation to legalize gambling. It comes at the same time that the income from tourism is being badly bruised by a global recession, effects of which might be lasting for years to come.

Actually, Hawaii, besides Utah, is the only state that does not permit gambling. Many are wondering why not when even Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Delaware and Maryland have introduced or even extended their gambling legislation during the past year.

Opponents to gambling are stating how the islands reputation as a family-friendly destination will be tarnished, as well as that the social problems, such as crime, will certainly increase. Hawaii Coalition Against Legalized Gambling is stating that most people that come to Hawaii are not there ‘to be shut up inside casinos’ and that legalizing slot machines will certainly change island’s allure.

Yet, by some estimates, hundreds of thousands of current Hawaii residence are now forced to fly to other countries in order to engage in gambling, leaving their cash outside of the island and its economy. And they are the side who, supported by the economical crisis and a heavy lobbing by international casinos, will probably win.