Arkansas Online Casino Bill Faces Legislative Hurdles, Sector Growth in Question

Arkansas' push to legalize online casino gaming has hit a significant roadblock. State Senator Bart Hester, a key legislative figure, declared there's 'no chance' for House Bill 1861 to pass this year. The proposed iGaming legislation faces staunch opposition from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Attorney General Tim Griffin.

Currently, eight U.S. states permit online casino gambling, but Arkansas remains on the sidelines alongside its neighbors. While the state allows online sports betting through apps operated by its three physical casinos, the expansion to digital table games and slots appears stalled. This legislative impasse could delay Arkansas' entry into the growing $20 billion U.S. iGaming market.

The political resistance highlights ongoing tensions between gambling expansion and conservative values in Southern states. With neighboring states also prohibiting online casinos, regional operators may need to wait years for market access. Meanwhile, Arkansas' existing casino resorts continue offering sports wagering through their mobile platforms.