As we reported previously, in December 2021, the Arkansas Racing Commission voted to amend the state’s casino gaming rules to allow online/mobile sports betting throughout the state. The amended rules take effect immediately upon approval by the Arkansas Legislative Council, which was planning to consider the rules at its January 28 meeting. Earlier this week, however, the Commission asked the Council hold off on considering the amended rules until its next meeting, scheduled for March 18, 2022.

In a statement issued to the Arkansas Times, a spokesperson indicated the Commission needs additional time to address “several questions…that were recently raised by legislators and others.” Industry observers believe the source of controversy is the proposed rule that would prevent third-party online betting platform operators from collecting more than 50% of the net gaming revenue generated from online betting. The proposed rule faces strong opposition from several major online betting platform operators.

We will continue to monitor developments in Arkansas and provide further updates when appropriate.

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