What's the Status of Online Casino Laws in Arkansas?
Over the past few years, online gambling laws in the US have been relaxing on a state-by-state basis. However, while most of you will know it is legal to gamble at online casinos in states such as
There are occasions when we here at ReadyBetGo want to bring you interesting facts about the gambling industry When something catches our eye, we will publish it for your enjoyment. New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, not everyone is up to speed on the current laws in Arkansas.
Throughout history, the state of Arkansas has usually viewed gambling in a poor light. For many decades, gambling of any kind was illegal. However, in recent years, there has been a shift in attitudes, much like there has been in many other states.
The process has been slower in Arkansas, but it looks like times might change in the state. New gambling laws introduced in 2018 made it legal to enjoy casino gambling and sports betting (if only at physical casinos). There are noises that the state plans to reform online gambling laws too, but this is not something expected soon.
So Is It Illegal to Gamble at Online Casinos in Arkansas?
Technically, it is illegal to gamble online, but they aim most of the laws at the operators offering online casinos. Bettors rarely face prosecution, and even if they did, it would result in small fines of no more than $25. As for online casinos, if an online casino was set up in Arkansas and accepted players wagers, it would face big trouble.
Some players opt to gamble at offshore online casinos. You can find these at sites listing AR online casinos, such as bestarkansascasinosites.com. However, offshore casinos offer risks to those that play. There is little player protection and these sites are usually unregulated. Therefore, anyone that takes the chance should do so at their own risk.
Unregulated casinos do not have regulatory bodies to answer to and, therefore, can make up their own rules. You would have no protection if they kept your money. So, to be on the safe side, before choosing your next online casino, make sure you read guides on how to choose your perfect online casino.
What to Lookout for at Offshore Online Casinos
If you really must gamble online at offshore casinos, at least do your research to establish the most trustworthy platforms. For one, look for those that have licenses in other jurisdictions, as this at least means they have to conform to some rules and regulations. Those with a license from the Malta Gaming Authority are your best bet, but even Curacao licensing shows a site must abide by regulations.
Plus, look out for casinos that have been tested by third-party organisations such as iTech Labs and iCOGRA. These firms would have tested the games for fairness.
Finally, read as many review sites as possible to gauge the feedback from others about an online casino. If a platform has a lot of negative reviews, you’re probably best off avoiding it rather than becoming the next person with a reason to complain.
Once you have found an ideal casino, make sure you gamble sensibly. Never keep much money in the casino account and always perform effective bankroll management techniques.
Will Online Gambling Laws Change in Arkansas?
Only time will tell, but at the moment, there has not been much mention of online gambling laws changing. That said, the state of Arkansas could technically make online sports betting legal because of the changes in gambling laws made back in 2018. However, they have yet to act on this.
As other states continue to legalise online gaming, this may push the state to go in a similar direction. Unfortunately, until then, anyone that wants to enjoy online casinos will either have to go to a state where this activity is legal or take the risk of playing at unregulated offshore online casinos.
Where to Enjoy Land-Based Gambling in Arkansas?
As mentioned earlier in the article, you can only gamble at specific land-based locations. Currently, this is limited to two racecourses which also house brick and mortar casinos. One of these is the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs. Here you can wager on a hectic racing season, enjoy slot machines, and even table games. The only other option is the Southland Park Gaming and Racing, which is found in West Memphis. These both at least offer an alternative to online casino gambling if not as convenient.
Aside from those establishments, however, your options are very limited. Perhaps one day the state will finally agree to relax online casino gambling laws!