Online Gambling Bill Gains Momentum in Arkansas

Arkansas is among the states that currently offer legal retail and online sports betting, as well as casino gambling. While that’s more gambling activities available when compared to nearby Texas or Oklahoma, lawmakers are attempting to increase the number of legal activities available in the state with the addition of online gambling.

Constitutional Amendment Proposes Online Gambling Legalization

Since the repeal of PASPA in 2018, 39 US states offer some form of legal betting. Unlike mobile betting, which is available in a majority of the states that offer legal wagering, online gambling such as slots and table games, is available only in a handful of states. Currently, only seven states offer legal iGaming, and the list includes major gambling markets such as Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Earlier this year, an amendment to the Arkansas constitution was filed, marking a new push toward legal online gambling. Lawmakers across the country often consider constitutional amendments in order to legalize iGaming or sports betting for example.

Still, the process itself isn’t straightforward or quick as it requires approval by a majority of the respective state’s legislators. Then, a public ballot needs to be organized where voters would cast a vote in support or opposition to the proposal in question.

If Legislators Greenlight iGaming, Arkansas Residents Need to Vote Too

Such is the path the iGaming proposal needs to go down to before making online gambling in Arkansas legal. The bill, Senate Joint Resolution 8, filed by Sen. Bryan King, a Republican, reads: “An amendment to the Arkansas constitution to amend Arkansas constitution, Amendment 100, concerning casino gaming.”

Not much else is explained in the proposal that, if approved by lawmakers and Arkansas residents, may bring legal online gambling to the Natural State. After it was introduced in the Senate, the proposal was referred to the State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee.

Supporters of the iGaming legalization include lawmakers, as well as the Saracen Casino Resort, a popular land-based casino located in Pine Bluff. Proponents of online gambling suggest that the activity will enhance the available gambling options for Arkansas residents, while generating extra tax revenue.

In contrast, opponents of the iGaming legalization, including Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, disagree with the benefits of the activity. This is not uncommon as responsible gambling advocates and other groups, opposing iGaming, warn that widespread online gambling such as slots and table games, may result in significant harm and an uptick in the cases related to problem gambling. In addition, others fear that online gambling cannibalizes land-based revenue.

For the moment, the proposed constitutional amendment is yet to pick up further speed. It is yet to be seen whether or not the iGaming proposal will gather enough support from legislators in Arkansas and appear for a vote by state residents.