Arkansas Bill Proposes Legal Online Casino Gaming
Key Takeaways
A bill has been introduced in Arkansas aiming to legalize online casino offerings. The state’s three licensed land-based casinos would be allowed to offer online games such as blackjack, roulette, and poker through mobile apps. At the same time, the bill specifically targets illegal operators. Anyone running online casinos or sports betting without a licence would face criminal prosecution.
What Exactly Does the Bill Propose?
The bill, titled House Bill 1861 (HB 1861), was introduced with bipartisan support. Its goal is to expand the existing gambling offerings in Arkansas to include online casino games.
The proposed legislation would permit:
- Online slot machines
- Video poker
- Table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker
These games would be offered exclusively through the mobile apps of the three state-licensed casinos:
- Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff
- Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs
- Southland Casino Resort in West Memphis
Why Now?
Sports betting is already legal in Arkansas and is also available through the apps of the three casinos. With the new law, the state aims to take another step toward regulated online gambling.
A key objective: to combat the growing market of illegal offshore casinos. These operators run without licences, pay no taxes, and offer no consumer protection. The new law aims to set clear boundaries and hold illegal operators accountable.
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Financial Support for Athletes
Another aspect of the bill addresses support for student athletes. A portion of the revenue from online gambling would go to so-called NIL collectives (Name, Image, Likeness). These organizations provide financial support to college athletes—a model that is gaining traction across the U.S.
What’s the Situation in Other U.S. States?
Currently, online casino gambling is legal in eight U.S. states:
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Vermont
- Rhode Island
- Connecticut
- New Jersey
- Delaware
- West Virginia
These states rely on regulated operators and generate tax revenue in the process. At the same time, they offer players greater protection through clear rules and oversight.
Targeting Illegal Operators
Arkansas isn’t the only state cracking down on illegal online casinos. Other states, such as Michigan and Arizona, have recently issued so-called “cease-and-desist” letters to unlicensed operators. The goal is to curb the black market and protect players from shady offerings.
One major concern is so-called sweepstakes casinos. These advertise free games but allow users to purchase digital currency—a legal loophole that is increasingly under fire.
Our Assessment
The initiative in Arkansas represents a logical step in the development of regulated online gambling in the U.S. By involving existing licensed casinos, control remains in the hands of the state. At the same time, the black market is being addressed, and a foundation for responsible gaming is being established.
For players, this means more choice, better safety, and clear legal frameworks. Whether the bill will ultimately be passed remains to be seen—but the direction is clear: regulation over prohibition.
Sources
- Arkansas House of Representatives
- American Gaming Association
- Michigan Gaming Control Board
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