Legal Gambling Age Arkansas

For many new sports bettors, the minimum age requirement for legal sports betting is one of the single biggest concerns. Underage gambling is viewed as a major offense that can prompt heavy fines or even jail time for sports betting operators, so sportsbooks are extremely strict about who they allow to gamble. Federal law provides fairly extensive guidelines for most forms of gambling, but it has always left the specificity of legal gambling age requirements to individual states. International online sportsbooks are free to set their own limits, but domestic providers are subject to state age requirements.

Some states offer limited forms of gambling (bingo, charity games, etc.) starting well before the age of 18, but all states require that players be at least 18 years old to bet on sports. 35 states set their legal gambling age higher than 18, which is unfortunate for sports bettors. Thankfully, even in these states, legal sports betting is available to all players who are 18 years old as long as they use international online sportsbooks.

Use Sports Betting Sites When 18 To Bet On NFL

Arkansas voters have approved a measure legalizing casinos in four counties, including at a horse track and dog track that already offer video poker and other electronic gambling. The 'Arkansas Wins 2020' ballot initiative has reached 97,000 signatures from residents supporting a massive expansion in the number of state-licensed casinos. The signatures have been submitted to the Arkansas secretary of state for validation for the Nov 2020 ballot. A minimum of 89,151 signatures must be verified as registered voters.

The Houston Texans have an incredibly rough opening couple weeks. Week 1, they played the Kansas City Chiefs and got demolished, and Week 2 they’re set to face off against the Baltimore Ravens. The Texans offense looked much worse without Deandre Hopkins, who got off to a great start in Arizona. They’ll have a lot to handle on that end facing off against the Baltimore defense, and the Texans defense showed no real ability to stop Patrick Mahomes, which makes them questionable against Lamar Jackson. This is an interesting game, but the Ravens are deserving favorites.

Sports Betting Ages By State

Each of the states with sports betting is different, but the legal sports betting age by state is almost always 21, while the legal lottery and pari-mutuel betting age is usually 18 (except for Alabama, where all gambling ages are 19 for some reason). The following age minimums for sports betting are what you should stick to, listed alphabetically by state. (Note: The states with an age range indicate areas where there is a different limit for commercial vs. tribal casino gaming and betting, and you can typically err on the side of the lower age.)

• Alabama Betting Age – 19
• Alaska Betting Age – 19
• Arizona Betting Age – 21
• Arkansas Betting Age – 21
• California Betting Age – 18-21
• Colorado Betting Age – 21
• Connecticut Betting Age – 21
• Delaware Betting Age – 21
• Florida Betting Age – 21
• Georgia Betting Age – 21
• Hawaii Betting Age – 18
• Idaho Betting Age – 21
• Illinois Betting Age – 21
• Indiana Betting Age – 21
• Iowa Betting Age – 21
• Kansas Betting Age – 21
• Kentucky Betting Age – 18

• Louisiana Betting Age – 21
• Maine Betting Age – 21
• Maryland Betting Age – 21
• Massachusetts Betting Age – 21
• Michigan Betting Age – 18-21
• Minnesota Betting Age – 18-21
• Mississippi Betting Age – 21
• Missouri Betting Age – 21
• Montana Betting Age – 18
• Nebraska Betting Age – 21
• Nevada Betting Age – 21
• New Hampshire Betting Age – 21
• New Jersey Betting Age – 21
• New Mexico Betting Age – 21
• New York Betting Age – 21
• North Carolina Betting Age – 21
• North Dakota Betting Age – 21

• Ohio Betting Age – 21
• Oklahoma Betting Age – 18-21
• Oregon Betting Age – 18-21
• Pennsylvania Betting Age – 21
• Rhode Island Betting Age – 18
• South Carolina Betting Age – 21
• South Dakota Betting Age – 21
• Tennessee Betting Age – 18
• Texas Betting Age – 21
• Utah Betting Age – 18
• Vermont Betting Age – 18
• Virginia Betting Age – 18
• Washington Betting Age – 18-21
• West Virginia Betting Age – 21
• Wisconsin Betting Age – 21
• Wyoming Betting Age – 18

Legal Sports Betting Age At Land-Based Sportsbooks

Generally speaking, the legal sports betting age at land-based sportsbooks is 21 years old. Now that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA, 1992) has been overturned, each state is allowed to set its own age minimums for its own sports wagering industry. Most states have chosen 21, as this aligns well with their existing gambling policies at the venues where new sports betting lounges are opening. In some ways, it’s silly to sort out any legal sports betting age by state, as almost all of them seem to be in agreement on this one point (and only this one point, truth be told).

The caveat here comes when the entirety of a state’s gambling market is tribal in nature, with casinos located totally on sovereign tribal land (i.e. reservations). In these states, there are often added challenges to getting new sports betting laws passed, as the tribes tend to have sweeping exclusivity deals as part of their state compacts. It is conceivable that in such states, where sports wagering is limited to tribal venues, that the sports betting age would be 18, in line with most pari-mutuel and lottery age minimums nationwide.

Legal Sports Betting Age At Online Sportsbooks

The legal sports betting age at online sportsbooks can be different depending on where you live. For example, Rhode Island, Oregon, and New Hampshire only require people who are using online sportsbooks to be 18 years old or older. However, in places such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, you have to be 21 years old or older in order to use legal sports betting sites. A general rule of thumb to follow is to check your state’s casino gambling laws as those are the ones usually used to define the required sports betting age.

When it comes to using online offshore sportsbooks, those sites usually require users to be 18 years old or older. However, if your state’s sports betting laws require bettors to be 21 years old or older than you will have to follow that guideline before using offshore options. This will ensure that you are totally safe when using these sites, otherwise, you may run the risk of running into trouble down the line. These offshore sites take underage gambling very seriously and those that are caught betting as a minor will have their winnings confiscated and their account terminated.

Betting Age To Bet On College Football

When it comes to betting on your favorite college team, online sportsbooks will have all the games that players would like to choose and bet from. There are plenty of prop bets that you can choose and most of the time these games are close and could turn out to help players win a lot of money. The age requirement is one thing that is very important and when it comes to online sportsbooks, all players have to be is 18 and older to sign up. So as exciting as it is to bet on your favorite college football team, make sure you’re old enough to place big wagers.

Betting Age To Bet On Basketball

With the NBA Season starts just weeks away, knowing the legal NBA betting age in your state is incredibly important. While it varies from state to state, most states requiring bettors to be at least 21 years old or older in order to wager, knowing the legal gambling age is a great way to be fully prepared to go into the NBA season. International sportsbooks operate legally in every state, even those that have yet to regulate legal sports betting in their legislations. With online sportsbooks, you can bet on your favorite NBA team by being at least 18 years old. Underage sports betting is prohibited and bettors who attempt to bet on the NBA while not being old enough could run into some trouble. It is important to know the legal age to bet on the NBA in your state before you try and wager.

Age To Bet On MLB Baseball

All American players must be at least 18 years old to bet on MLB baseball games, while bettors in some states have to be at least 21 years old to bet with state-licensed sportsbooks. With the coronavirus limiting the capability of most brick-and-mortar sportsbooks, most MLB betting will take place online during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. You will be required to provide proof of valid, government-issued ID before you can withdraw winnings from betting on baseball.

The Risk Of Underage Sports Betting

Underage gambling is strictly prohibited, and the act of such can result in real legal troubles. This is why knowing and understanding your state’s gambling laws is incredibly important. If you are caught attempting to bet on sports while under the required betting age by your state, then you run the risk of being permanently banned from the sportsbook, fined by the courts, or legally persecuted. Illegal gambling of any kind can result in misdemeanor or even felony charges. It Is an unnecessary risk to take place in underage gambling as the negatives are life-altering. Waiting until you are in the legal gambling age in your state is the best way to go.

Legal Horse Betting Age

The legal horse betting age is the same as it is for sports betting on the list above. Horse betting is one of the reasons that legal gambling ages exist in the first place, so it is no wonder that they use the same laws as casinos and sportsbooks. Overall, if you are 21 then you can bet on horses and are old enough to bet on sports anywhere in the world. If you are over 18, then you are only old enough to bet on horses in these states.

Alabama – California – Hawaii – Kentucky – Michigan – Montana – Oklahoma – Oregon – Rhode Island – Tennessee – Utah – Vermont – Virginia – Washigton – Wyoming

Why Is There A Minimum Age Limit To Bet On Sports?

When it comes to betting on sports inside of a casino sportsbook, there is often an age restriction because the sportsbook will serve alcohol on the premises. In order for the casino to keep their liquor license and comply with the federal law, everyone in their building must be 21 or older. Certain states, such as Rhode Island, have sportsbooks that accept bettors as young as 18 because the sports betting laws will allow them to. When it comes to betting on sports online most of the sites in the US will set their age restriction according to the state that they are based in. When using on offshore sports betting site, most of them will set their minimum age at 18 because that is the legal age to gamble in the country that they are based in.

How Do I Verify My Age To A Sportsbook?

With both land-based and online sportsbooks, you will need to provide legal documentation that shows you are legally old enough to bet on sports. This can be a standard government-issued ID. It is also a requirement at international sportsbooks, with online sports betting operations requiring ID in order to prevent you from making multiple accounts as well as ensuring they are sending the payments to the correct person. It is not a difficult process to prove your age at sportsbooks and if you are looking to bet on sports you must have documentation proving your age.

Is There An Age Limit To Go Inside Of A Sportsbook?

Yes, and as of right now, almost every legal land-based sportsbook in the US requires anyone trying to enter the venue to be 21 or older. Only Rhode Island, New York, and Montana will allow bettors as young as 18 to enter their sportsbook. Some casinos have their own betting apps or post their odds on their website so you can view lines from there, but in order to physically enter the casino or racino you must meet their age requirement.

Will I Get In Trouble If I Am Sports Betting Underage?

Where Can I Bet On Sports Under 21?

As of right now, your only land-based options would be in Rhode Island and New York. Once Montana launches their sports betting operations those would become an option as well. The same goes for sports betting in New Hampshire. Oregon will let those 18 years old or older to use the lottery’s mobile sportsbook known as Scoreboard. Some states that are working on sports betting legislation are aiming to set the legal gambling age at 18 as well. We will update you as soon as we have confirmation on which states do so. Online offshore sportsbooks will normally accept members 18 or older, but it is best to comply with the age requirement set by your state. If you take a look at the list above, we have laid out which states you can start online sports betting under the age of 21.

What Is The Legal Age For Horse Betting?

Most states have set the legal age for horse race betting at 18 or older. This includes betting on live races and simulcast races. However, there are a handful of states, such as Arizona, that require pari-mutuel bettors to be 21 or older. There are even some states that say you have to be 19 or older to bet on the ponies, so be sure to check your state laws. Most online racebooks will require their users to be at least 18 or older in order to bet on the races.

Which Online Sportsbooks And Betting Apps Do Not Check Age?

What Is The Legal Betting Age At Bovada?

Bovada only requires that users be at least 18 years old, no matter what state they might live in. But, Bovada does not accept any players from Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, New York or Nevada. Players in all other states should still consult the betting age in their state and know if their age limit is higher. Though it is good to understand your local betting age, there has not been any reports of a single person arrested for underage gambling online. There are, however, consequences for someone who fails to meet minimum betting ages at Bovada or any other online sportsbook.

Casino gambling was prohibited in Arkansas until voters approved a constitutional amendment to allow four casinos in November 2018. The ballot initiative gave the Arkansas Racing Commission the authority to license and regulate casino gambling.

The first two casinos opened April 1, 2019 at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs and Southland Gaming & Racing in West Memphis.

The two remaining casino licenses were designated for new casinos in Jefferson and Pope Counties. The Arkansas Racing Commission accepted applications for both locations and licensed the Quapaw Nation of Oklahoma to build the Saracen Casino in Jefferson County. The commission also accepted the application of Gulfside Casino Partnership to build the River Valley Casino in Pope County.

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Arkansas Casinos

The Arkansas constitutional amendment approved by voters in Nov 2018 authorized four casinos to be licensed for Vegas-style gambling. Two of those casino licenses were designated for new casinos in Jefferson and Pope counties. The other two licenses were granted to two existing racetracks.

• New casino to be built in Jefferson County
• New casino to be built in Pope County
• Oaklawn Racetrack in Hot Springs National Park, AR
• Southland Racetrack in West Memphis, AR

NEW CASINOS - A casino license for Jefferson County was issued to Saracen Casino in June 2019. A license to build River Valley Casino in Pope County was issued in June 2020.

River Valley Casino Resort
Russellville, Pope County, Arkansas

Saracen Casino Resort
Pine Bluff, Jefferson County, Arkansas

RACINOS - Both Oaklawn and Southland racetracks were licensed and began casino operations on April 1, 2019.

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
2705 Central Avenue
Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901
(501) 623-4411

Southland Casino Racing
1550 Ingram Boulevard
West Memphis, AR 72301
870 735-3670

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The Legalization of Casino Gambling 2018

A ballot measure calling for the state to license four casinos was approved by voters in the Nov 2018 election.

The resulting constitutional amendment authorised the Arkansas Racing Commission to regulate casinos and defines casino gambling as Vegas-style gambling and sports betting.

The amendment also authorizes the new types of casino gambling to be played at racinos (racetrack and casino), where previously these track casinos could only offer electronic games of skill.

Arkansas has two existing racinos: Oaklawn Racing & Gaming in Hot Springs and Southland Gaming and Racing in West Memphis. Both Oaklawn and Southland have announced major expansion plans to build larger casinos and to add hotels.

Two new additional casinos will be licensed by the Racing Commissions bringing the total to four casinos. One will be in Jefferson County and the other in Pope County. This application process will commence when the commission finalizes its operational rules.

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'Arkansas Wins 2020' ballot campaign is ended

UPDATE
August 7, 2020 - The Arkansas Wins 2020 campaign committee filed a motion in court today to dismiss their case, thus ending their campaign for a Nov. ballot measure.

August 5, 2020

Arkansas Wins 2020, the petition to legalize 16 more casinos with a constitutional amendment on the Nov 3 ballot, appears to be headed for life support.

1. A few weeks ago Secretary of State John Thurston proclaimed the petition was ineligible for the ballot due to noncompliance with state requirements for paid canvassers.

2. Last week the Board of Election of Commissioners rejected the petition in a 5-1 vote

The Arkansas Wins 2020 support group is appealing both decisions. On July 31 the Arkansas Supreme Court approved the group's request for Secretary Thurston to verify the signatures submitted for the ballot measure. The court also granted 'provisional certification of the initiative pending review of the merits of the certification by the court.'

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'Arkansas Wins 2020' reaches signature requirement

July 14, 2020

The 'Arkansas Wins 2020' ballot initiative has reached 97,000 signatures from residents supporting a massive expansion in the number of state-licensed casinos. The signatures have been submitted to the Arkansas secretary of state for validation for the Nov 2020 ballot. A minimum of 89,151 signatures must be verified as registered voters.

This ballot measure would amend the state constitution to allow up to 16 additional casinos. Each casino operator would pay a one-time licensing fee of $250,000 and a tax on gross gaming revenues of 13% on the first $150M revenues and 20% above that.

UPDATE July 17, 2020
Secretary of State John Thurston ruled the Arkansas Wins 2020 petition invalid because its canvassers failed to include the required background check.

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Arkansas Launches Sports Betting

July 2, 2019

In the November 2019 election Arkansas voters approved sports betting at four casino locations. On July 1, 2020 Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs became the first of the four to open their sports book.

The other three locations that will open sports betting are Southland Racetrack in West Memphis, the new Saracen Casino Resort coming to Jefferson County, and a new casino to be licensed in Pope County.

Each casino will pay the state a 13% tax on the first $150 million of revenues from sports betting. The tax rate increases to 20% on revenues above $150 million.

Mobile and online betting have not yet been approved by the state legislature.

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Arkansas has 6 bids for 2 new casinos

May 31, 2019

The bidding period ended yesterday at 5:00pm for interested parties to submit their application to the Arkansas Racing Commission for development of a casino in Pope or Jefferson County.

A total of six applications were submitted. Five bids were placed for the Pope County casino. Only the Quapaw Nation bid on a casino in Jefferson County. The Arkansas Racing Commission will begin review of each submission on June 13.

The five bidders for the Pope County casino were:

• Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma
• Choctaw Nation
• Gulfside Casino Partnership
• Hard Rock International & Warner Gaming, Joint Venture
• Robert and Ruth Kehl
• Tri-Peaks Entertainment Group LLC

Arkansas voters approved 4 casino gaming locations in last November's election. In addition to new casinos in Pope and Jefferson counties, two racetracks were authorized to add Vegas-style gambling. These were the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort and Southland Casino Racing. Both opened their casino operations on April 1, 2019.

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Arkansas' First Casinos Open at Two Racetracks

April 1, 2019

Five months after voters approved casino gambling in Arkansas, two race track have official opened their new casino operations with blackjack, poker, roulette and slot machines. Sports betting is expected in a few months.

Under the new law these casinos will be open 24/7 year round. Previously as racetracks they closed for Christmas and Easter.

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs opened their new casino at 4am April 1st. Oaklawn offers 1,300 slot machines and 22 live table games.

Oaklawn will begin a $100 million construction project in May to build an entertainment center and a 200-room hotel with a spa and an outdoor pool. Construction will be completed in early 2020.

Southland Casino and Racing

Southland Casino and Racing in West Memphis also opened their new casiino April 1. Southland hosts 2,000 slot machines and 40 live table games.

Southland will begin a $250 million construction project in May to add 28,000 square feet of casino space with an additional 500 slot machines and 20 table games. The project also includes a 20-story hotel tower and four new restaurants.

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Arkansas voters pass casino amendment

November 06, 2018

On Wednesday approval was given to add proposed casino legislation to the Arkansas November ballot. 85,000 signatures from registered voters were needed in support of the proposed measure. 99,988 signatures were submitted.

The measure would bring casino gaming to select racetracks. Those racetracks operate electronic gaming, such as video poker.

Out of state competition has prompted the proposed measure. Residents of Arkansas are crossing the state line to gamble. That is potential tax revenue that Arkansas could use for improvements like infrastructure. There would also be the creation of new jobs.

The measure is opposed by Gov. Asa Hutchinson and a conservative group.

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Quapaw tribe contributes $1.4M to support casino referendum

September 18, 2018

The ballot measure that would allow for the development of 4 casinos in Arkansas has received a $1.4 million contribution in support by a Native American tribe.

In August a donation of $191,000 was given to Driving Arkansas Forward by the Quapaw Tribe in Oklahoma. This made the total donations to the cause $1.4 million.

If the proposed measure is approved the Arkansas State Racing Commission will allow the Southland Racing Corp. and Oaklawn Jockey Club to expand their gaming offerings. Also, two new casinos would be built. One would be in Russellville. The other near Pine Bluff.

The proposed measure has been certified for the ballot this November.

Last week the Arkansas Supreme Court was asked to have the measure removed from the ballot by two committees.

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Oklahoma Tribes contribute funds to Arkansas Casino Campaign

July 18, 2018

A constitutional ballot referendum is being proposed that would allow for four casinos to be built in the State of Arkansas. The committee that is striving to push the measure forward is Driving Arkansas Forward. The group has support from both the Cherokee Nation and the Quapaw Tribe. The Cherokee Nation has contributed $525,300. The Quapaw have contributed $707,000. This is a total contribution of $1.23 million.

Another $180,000 was given by the Quapaw Tribe to pay for the hiring of a firm that will collect signatures to have the proposed measure placed on the November ballot. The Gulfside Casino Partnership and the Association of Gaming Equipment also donated an additional $10,000.

A large portion of the money will be spent on advertising to promote the measure.

Voters need to give approval for the measure if casinos will be allowed to be built. Southland and Oaklawn Racing would be allowed to expand their wagering operations and be allowed to offer some casino gaming. Two other casinos would be built in Jefferson and Pope Counties.

It is possible that $120 million could be earned in tax revenue for the state every year per a report by the Driving Arkansas Forward committee.

Currently there are 11 states that do not have casinos.

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Arkansas casino measure is officially on Nov 6 ballot

May 29, 2018

A ballot measure is about to be voted on by Arkansas voters asking to build four casinos. One would be located in Jefferson County. The measure was recent approved to move forward by Leslie Rutledge, the Attorney General for Arkansas.

The push behind allowing for casinos to be built in the state is being supported by the group, Driving Arkansas Forward. Under the proposed bill the casinos would be taxed at 65%. The money would go to improve bridges and roads.

For the measure to be placed on the ballot for voters to decide, signatures need to be collected to show support. By July 6 84,859 signatures must be submitted. Voting will take place on November 6.

In addition to Jefferson County, Pope County is another location for two casinos. They would be located in West Memphis at the Southland greyhound track. Also, at the Oaklawn horse track that is located in Hot Springs.

The measure previously failed approval from the Arkansas Attorney General due to the wording of the bill's title. Rutledge believed that the wording was misleading and would not be clear to the voters. A lawsuit occurred shortly after. The Arkansas Supreme Court heard the case, Couch v. Rutledge. After the ruling, Rutledge certified the title for the proposed measure.

When the announcement was made earlier this year that the casino measure could move forward, members of the business community and officials from Pine Bluff and Jefferson County met. There was an event for the Economic Alliance for Jefferson County. During this meeting plans for a new resort casino were presented by the Quapaw Indian Tribe's Chief, John Berrey. The project would create 1,000 new jobs in the county.

The tribe owns a casino in Oklahoma. Located in Joplin, Missouri and close to the state line boarder.

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Arkansas AG rejects casinos ballot initiative

April 11, 2018

A proposal that would allow for the development of four casinos in Arkansas was denied on Tuesday by Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. The proposal was for the naming and ballot title for a bill that would require a constitutional amendment allowing the casinos. The casinos would be built in Miller, Benton, Pulaski, and Boone counties. Tax money from the casinos would go to fund highway infrastructure projects.

The proposal is being promoted by Arkansas Wins in 2018 Inc. It is a private group in favor of the development of casinos in the state.

Currently electronic versions of games of skill are permitted to be in operation. These games can be found in West Memphis at Southland Park Gaming and Racing and in Hot Springs at Oaklawn Racing and Gaming.

The ballot title and naming were denied for the proposed measure since the Attorney General Leslie Rutledge did not believe they accurately described the proposal. She believes the text was ambiguous and not clear what was being proposed to voters.

Certification is needed by the Attorney General for the ballot title and popular name. This must happen before signature collection in support of the measure can take place. 84,859 signatures will be needed to have the measure placed on the general election ballot for November 06 of this year.

This is not the first time that a proposed casino bill has been rejected by the AG. It happens to be the third time this year. Earlier this year Driving Arkansas Forward attempted to have their ballot name and title approved. That proposal would have allowed for four casino licenses. Southland and Oaklawn would have received one each. The other two would go to Pope and Jefferson counties. The tax revenue made from the gaming would also go to fund highway projects.

A different proposal has been submitted by Driving Arkansas Forward. This one involves the Quapaw Tribe. The tribe has interest in developing a casino.

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Arkansas Election Measure Proposes Three Casinos

January 08, 2018

A constitutional amendment has been submitted to state Attorney General Leslie Rutledge's office last week. The amendment would allow for three casinos to be developed in Arkansas.

The state would receive 12 percent of the gross revenue from each casino under the proposed amendment. Most of the money would go to the Arkansas Department of Transportation. It is estimated that could be $45 million in annual proceeds for rood improvements.

Crittenden and Jefferson counties would be the location for two of the casinos. Either Union, Mississippi, White, or Pope county would be the location for the third.

There will be a $100 million minimum investment by the casino operators.

A poll conducted in 2016 found that 38 percent of Arkansas residents favored the idea of a casino. 49 percent were against it. 13 percent were unsure.

Currently slot machines are located at two parimutuel racetracks. However there are no Native American owned casinos or commercial casinos in the state.

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September 19, 2016

Lawsuit Asked to be Dropped by Pro Arkansas Casino Group

A lawsuit to stop the ballot measure that would allow for casinos has been filed. The lawsuit wants the election officials to be blocked from counting the measure's votes.

Arkansas Wins in 2016, the group in support of the measure, has asked the Arkansas Supreme Court to dismiss it.

Opponents to the measure feel that the wording used is misleading. They also believe that the law was not followed when it came to reporting paid canvassers.

However, Arkansas Wins in 2016 believes that their opponents have not provided information on how the proposed casino bill would adversely affect them.

September 17, 2016

Arkansas Casino Bill Supported by Cherokee Nation

The proposed casino ballot has gotten support from Cherokee Nation Businesses. $400,000 has been given to help fund the support for the measure.

On Thursday a report for the campaign financing was released. Arkansas Winning Initiative Inc., was given the money.

If the measure is approved a constitutional amendment would allow for the development of casinos in Washington, Boone, and Miller counties.

Cherokee Nation Businesses has expressed interest in operating the casino that would be located in Washington County.

$1 million was given by the tribe in June in support of the measure. In August a $100,000 loan was also given by Marc Williams of Branson, Missouri.

Operators of the two race tracks in the state have given over $100,00 to help stop the measure from being approved.

September 14, 2016

Arkansas Casino Bill Pushes Forward

Voters will decide this November if new casinos should be built in the state. The ballot measure, Issue 5, would allow for casinos in three areas. Those areas are Harrison, Texarkana, and Fayetteville.

Arkansas Wins in 2016 is the group behind the proposed bill. The group believes that the casinos would bring more tourism, create new jobs, and the revenue could be taxed. It is estimated that the casino tax money could earn Arkansas tens of millions each year.

The Family Council opposes the measure. The group believes that the casinos would hurt the local host communities and that casinos would not be under the control of the government.

Under the proposed measure, the governor would form an Arkansas Gaming Commission. The commission would regulate and enforce the gaming laws of the state.

If Issue 5 is voter approved, a state constitutional amendment would be needed.

September 06, 2016

Arkansas Casino Measure Could be Blocked by Lawsuit

On Tuesday the Arkansas Supreme Court was asked to stop the proposed casino measure from being added to November's ballot. The measure would allow for the legalization of casinos and allowing them to be built in three counties.

The lawsuit wants officials prevented from counting votes for the measure. The group behind the lawsuit is The Committee to Protect Arkansas' Values/Stop Casinos Now.

Miller, Washington, and Boone counties are the proposed locations for the casinos.

The language used in the proposed measure's title is believed to be misleading according to the people against the measure. They believe that potential consequences of the casinos are not clear for the voters.

Arkansas Wins in 2016 is behind the measure. The group believes that they will win against the lawsuit.

September 01, 2016

Issue 5 Casino Ballot Measure Approved for November Vote

Enough signatures have been submitted to let voters decide in November if they will approve three new casinos in the state.

Issue 5 is the ballot that would make an amendment to the Arkansas state constitution.

Arkansas Wins in 2016 is the group behind that proposed measure.

Cherokee Nation Entertainment has agreed to help in the development in a casino resort in Washington County.

Arkansas Secretary of State Mark Martin's office has verified over 100,000 signatures to approve the addition of the measure to November's ballot. The minimum amount of signatures need is 84,859.

August 17, 2016

50,000 More Signatures Submitted for Arkansas Casino Measure

50,000 more signatures have been submitted in support of a proposed ballot measure that would allow for three casinos to be developed. The measure would amendment of the state's constitution to allow for the new casinos.

The signatures were submitted by the group, Arkansas Wins.

The casinos would be built in Boone, Miller, and Washington counties. Cherokee Nation Entertainment has agreed to operate the Washington County casino.

Voters in Arkansas have not favored casino proposals in the past. However, a lottery and bingo for charity was approved by voters in 2008.

July 27, 2016

AR Casino Ballot Measure Given More Time

More time to collect signatures in support for casinos in Arkansas has been granted.

Miller, Boone, and Washington counties are the proposed areas for the casinos.

A constitutional amendment would be needed for casinos to be developed in the state.

63,725 signatures have been collected. That is 75% of the required total signatures of 84,859 needed. It was this reason that the extension was granted by the Secretary of State. The final signatures need to be collected and submitted by August 26.

Cherokee Nation Entertainment has agreed to operate the Washington County casino location if the measure is approved by voters.

July 08, 2016

Signatures Submitted for Arkansas Casino Measure

Signatures have been submitted by a group that is pushing for a November ballot measure that would allow for three counties in Arkansas to build casinos.

Over 92,000 signatures were turned in my the group Arkansas Wins in 2016. The law requires a minimum of 84,859 signatures.

The proposed measure would call for an amendment to be made to the state constitution. It would allow for casinos in Washington, Boone, and Miller counties.

It was announced last month that Cherokee Nation Entertainment has expressed interest in being the operator for the Washington County casino.

June 24,2016

Cherokee Nation Entertainment to Run Proposed Washington Casino

Three counties in Arkansas could be allowed to develop casinos in a measure is approved by voters this November. Of those casinos, Cherokee Nation Entertainment has agreed to be the operator of one in Washington County.

A committee has formed to support the measure. If approved, the state's constitution would need an amendment.

Cherokee Nation Entertainment has agreed to operate the hotel and entertainment center in addition to the casino.

Currently the company operates and owns nine casinos in Oklahoma. There is a tenth location that is being built now in Grove.

Land trust status will not be sought by the company.

Miller and Boone counties are the proposed locations for the other casinos.

June 03, 2016

Three News Casinos Proposed for Arkansas

May 12, 2016

Additional Casinos for Arkansas Rejected

On Thursday, a proposed measure that would expand casino gaming in Arkansas was rejected by the state Attorney General.

Boone, Miller, and Washington counties were the locations that would have been allowed casinos.

The measure was rejected based on lacking more in depth details and vague language.

Currently there are two casinos in the state. They are located in West Memphis and Hot Springs.

October 05, 2012

Casino Measure Denied by Supreme Court

The Arkansas Supreme Court rejected a new state measure that would allow for four casinos to be built.

Professional poker player, Nancy Todd had been one of the measure's main supporters. It was rejected by the state's Supreme Court due to the wording that was used. It was ruled by the court that voters would not be informed well enough by the way the measure was written.

Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel stated that the measure's wording was insufficient and vague. He also stated that the wording failed to educate the voters that the current electronic gaming law could also be repealed.

If the measure was approved, a new constitutional amendment would be made. It would allow for Las Vegas based company, Poker Palace LLC, rights to own and operate the proposed four new casinos.

Language changes to the bill were made by Nancy Todd and resubmitted to have it placed on the November ballot. Over 78,000 signatures were collected in support of the measure. However the Supreme Court ruled that the signatures were invalid due to being collected before Todd had changed bill.

January 16, 2008

Fort Smith Indian Casino Rejected by Federal Government

FORT SMITH, AR - The U.S. Department of the Interior rejected a proposal by the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians to build a riverfront casino in Fort Smith. The tribe had applied to the department to place 10 acres of into federal trust for the purpose of building a casino.

In a surprising change of policy, the Interior Department added a new criteria based on commuting distance from a reservation to a casino. The Keetoowah live in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, a distance of 90 miles. The proposed casino site is near the ancestral lands of the Keetoowah.

Based on this distance criteria, the department rejected the tribe's application along with similar applications from ten other tribes across the country.

The tribe is considering an appeal.

May 12, 2016

Additional Casinos for Arkansas Rejected

On Thursday, a proposed measure that would expand casino gaming in Arkansas was rejected by the state Attorney General.

Boone, Miller, and Washington counties were the locations that would have been allowed casinos.

The measure was rejected based on lacking more in depth details and vague language.

Currently there are two casinos in the state. They are located in West Memphis and Hot Springs.

October 05, 2012

Casino Measure Denied by Supreme Court

The Arkansas Supreme Court rejected a new state measure that would allow for four casinos to be built.

Professional poker player, Nancy Todd had been one of the measure's main supporters. It was rejected by the state's Supreme Court due to the wording that was used. It was ruled by the court that voters would not be informed well enough by the way the measure was written.

Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel stated that the measure's wording was insufficient and vague. He also stated that the wording failed to educate the voters that the current electronic gaming law could also be repealed.

If the measure was approved, a new constitutional amendment would be made. It would allow for Las Vegas based company, Poker Palace LLC, rights to own and operate the proposed four new casinos.

Language changes to the bill were made by Nancy Todd and resubmitted to have it placed on the November ballot. Over 78,000 signatures were collected in support of the measure. However the Supreme Court ruled that the signatures were invalid due to being collected before Todd had changed bill.

January 16, 2008

Legal Gambling Age In Arkansas

Fort Smith Indian Casino Rejected by Federal Government

FORT SMITH, AR - The U.S. Department of the Interior rejected a proposal by the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians to build a riverfront casino in Fort Smith. The tribe had applied to the department to place 10 acres of into federal trust for the purpose of building a casino.

In a surprising change of policy, the Interior Department added a new criteria based on commuting distance from a reservation to a casino. The Keetoowah live in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, a distance of 90 miles. The proposed casino site is near the ancestral lands of the Keetoowah.

Based on this distance criteria, the department rejected the tribe's application along with similar applications from ten other tribes across the country.

The tribe is considering an appeal.

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Legal Gambling Age In Arkansas

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