Arkansas casino regulation – Arkansas Supreme Court Rules on Casino Re
Arkansas casino regulation – Arkansas Supreme Court Rules on Casino Regulation Referendum Challenge
Arkansas casino regulation at Lotus Asia. The Arkansas Supreme Court has partially dismissed a lawsuit concerning a ballot referendum that challenges a gaming license for a casino
The court’s ruling centers on Issue 2, which, if passed, would amend the Arkansas Constitution. This amendment would require that only counties with local referendums expressing support for a casino can receive a gaming concession from the Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC), the state agency responsible for regulating slots, table games, and sports betting.
The Cherokee Nation Entertainment, which received the Pope County casino license earlier this year, is contending the validity of the campaign behind Issue 2 and the manner it was certified by Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston.
Court’s Dismissal of Claims
In its recent ruling, the Arkansas Supreme Court dismissed several claims from the Cherokee, including allegations that the political group Local Voters in Charge improperly compensated canvassers and failed to comply with registration requirements.
Justice Courtney Rae Hudson explained that the plaintiffs did not provide substantial evidence to support their arguments for invalidating sufficient signatures to decertify the referendum.
“Merely presenting videos as proof of unlawful payment did not quantify the number of signatures collected,” Hudson stated. This dismissal aligns with earlier recommendations from Special Master Randy Wright, designed to expedite the review of the case ahead of Election Day.
Future of the Referendum
The ruling by the Arkansas Supreme Court potentially prolongs the Cherokee’s chances of removing Issue 2 from the ballot. They now rest on a remaining contention regarding the ballot title’s wording being misleading, which the court is expected to evaluate soon.
Opponents of Issue 2, including representatives from Local Voters in Charge, welcomed the court’s decision.
“We are grateful for the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling, affirming our compliance throughout the canvassing process,” said spokesperson Hans Stiritz.
Recent polling indicates that approximately 42% of likely voters would support Issue 2, while 28% would oppose it, and a notable 30% remain undecided.
Conclusion
The Arkansas Supreme Court’s ruling represents a crucial development in the ongoing discussion surrounding casino regulations in the state. As the referendum approaches, the outcome remains uncertain and continues to reflect broader sentiments about gaming policies among the electorate.
