The debate was adjourned after Murchison independent MLC Ruth Forrest raised concerns members were not practising appropriate social distancing in response to coronavirus.

"We should practise what we preach," Ms Forrest said.

The motion, which comes ahead of the state's gambling bill due to be tabled later this year, was brought on by Nelson independent MLC Meg Webb.

It called on the government to undertake and publicly release modelling on the social and economic impact of its proposed new poker machine licensing arrangement.

The motion also acknowledged Australia's situation, having a disproportionately high number of poker machines per capita, and the fact machines could be programmed to decrease the likelihood of addiction.

"The intensity of all poker machines can be programmed. These features include bet limits, spin speeds, jackpot limits and more," Ms Webb said.

"The higher these features are set, the higher the intensity of the machine."

Ms Webb said poker machines should only be located in destination gambling venues such as casinos.

"To me this remains the best indicated, first choice for Tasmania when the current licence ends in 2023," Ms Webb said.

Hobart independent MLC Rob Valentine was the only other member who spoke on the bill before the house adjourned.

He said he supported the call for the government to conduct modelling on its policy because it would allow members to be fully informed.

"We can't do half a job. We need to know that detail so we can ensure there won't be unintended consequences of the legislation going through," Mr Valentine said.

It was initially incorrectly reported Hobart independent MLC Robert Armstrong spoke on the gaming motion. This article has now been corrected to say Hobart independent MLC Rob Valentine.