Complete Arkansas Gambling Laws Guide
When it comes to gambling, regulations vary greatly from state to state. On this page, we’ll discuss the current Arkansas gambling laws. During our research, we’ve come to the conclusion that this particular state had a lot of restrictions associated with most betting activities, but things have changed recently.
What Are the Current Arkansas Gambling Laws?
Arkansas surely was part of the list of the most obstructive states in terms of gambling. In fact, the number of wagering activities residents could engage in was quite limited, including betting on horse and dog racing. At present, however, people of legal age may take part in various online and land-based gambling activities. Below, we’ll list all permitted forms of gambling within the state, and we’ll list some of the potential violations that may be committed.
History of the Gambling Laws in Arkansas
The Arkansas gambling laws went through a lot of changes during the years. In the past, gambling was quite notable in the state; however, this changed when the last opened casino was closed in 1967. In the following years, people living in the state had very few opportunities when it came to legal betting activities. Actually, they were only given the chance to lay bets on horse and dog racing events.
Fortunately, with the arrival of 2005, racinos were approved, as well. Racinos gave people the opportunity to bet on both horses and electronic games of skill. These games were defined as games that are not entirely based on chance. In 2018, however, the Arkansas gambling laws were, once again, amended.
That was the year when an amendment allowing the establishment of casinos got approved. It gave the Arkansas Racing Commission, which is the gambling regulatory body in the state, to license gambling at physical casinos. One year later, the very first two Arkansas gambling houses opened their doors.
Casino Gambling in Arkansas
At present, there are three operating casinos within the state – Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Southland Gaming and Racing, and Saracen Casino. All three of them have the legal right to deliver gambling services to customers. Some of the gaming options include poker, slots, blackjack, craps, and roulette. There are also a few bingo halls located in Arkansas. The legal gambling age for playing bingo is 18. Nonetheless, if you wish to enter a casino, you should note that no visitors under the age of 21 are permitted to access the facility.
Betting on Sports in Arkansas
All three casinos in Arkansas offer not only casino games but betting on sports, as well. Residents of the state may lay bets on different markets while at the facility. Gambling outside of the establishment is considered legal, as well. Offline sports betting became legal in 2019, and online wagering on sports has been legal since March 2022.
In other words, if you wish to try out your luck at one of the best US online casino sites, you’ll be able to do so. Additionally, off-shore wagering is considered legal as well. With all that being said, we may surely conclude that the Arkansas gambling laws are quite fair.
Arkansas Gambling Laws: Taxes, Violations, Penalties
Even though there are many permitted forms of gambling in Arkansas, individuals should be aware that some activities are illegal. One such operation is organizing a gambling event without owning a license or permission for it. For instance, if one arranges a gathering of people where everyone is required to pay a commission to participate, they’ll most likely be convicted of a felony.
Another thing to keep in mind is that all gambling winnings are fully taxable. Players are required to report their earnings generated from online or offline betting in their annual tax report. According to the Arkansas gambling laws, such profits are subject to a 4% tax. And last but not least, only casinos that have been licensed by the Arkansas Racing Commission have the legal right to offer gambling services.
FAQ
Finally, we would like to answer a few inquiries associated with the current gambling laws in Arkansas. Many people may get easily confused since the latest changes associated with the regulations came into force quite recently. To help you avoid any misunderstanding, below, we’ll present you with valuable and up-to-date information.
1️⃣ Is online gambling on sports legal in Arkansas?
Yes, online betting on sports in Arkansas was recently legalized. Ever since March 2022, people have the right to lay bets on different sports markets presented on licensed betting platforms. Those who prefer betting at brick-and-mortar facilities, on the other hand, may visit any of the three casinos in Arkansas; all of them have sportsbooks.
2️⃣ Are Arksansas gambling laws strict?
Back in the days, the gambling regulations in Arkansas were incredibly restrictive. People were only allowed to bet on horse and dog racing events. Nonetheless, in the last couple of years, a few amendments were introduced, and at present, people can gamble at casinos and online betting platforms.
3️⃣ How many casinos are there in Arkansas?
Right now, there are three working casinos in Arkansas, namely Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Southland Gaming and Racing, and Saracen Casino. All of them feature great selections of games. It is expected that a fourth one will open its doors in the upcoming months.
4️⃣ When did casinos become legal as per Arkansas online gambling laws?
In 2018, the Arkansas gambling laws were significantly amended. That was the time when gambling at casinos became officially legal. Just one year later, the Arkansas Racing Commission licensed the first two gambling facilities built within the state.
5️⃣ Are casino winnings taxable as per Arkansas gambling laws?
It won't come as a surprise that gambling winnings are completely taxable in Arkansas. Players are obliged to pay a 4% tax on all of their earnings generated from offline or online betting. Those who fail to conform to this or any other regulation may have to pay hefty fines, or face more serious consequences.