Arkansas Sports Betting

Recent news and details about sports betting in Arkansas

By virtue of a November 2018 referendum, Arkansas fully legalized sports betting. Now, the Natural State is just hammering out the regulatory details.

What still needs to happen?

Arkansas regulators are in the final countdown to begin accepting license applications from operators. By law, they must begin doing so by June 1, so something has to happen soon.

Projected Arkansas sports betting launch date

Sometime in the second half of 2019. Based upon the fact that BetLucky Sportsbook appears to have already begun setting up, a launch prior to the end of summer is not a ridiculous notion.

Arkansas Sports Betting FAQ

Is sports betting legal in Arkansas?

Yes. Arkansas voters approved a referendum in November 2018 to legalize sports betting.

Can I bet online on my phone in Arkansas?

Not yet. The current casino rules expressly prohibit off-premise wagering, which includes mobile betting. A bill to legalize mobile sports betting died in a Senate committee in April 2019. However, the issue could certainly return, particularly if retail wagering goes crazy if it launches.

When will sports betting launch in Arkansas?

Sometime in the second half of 2019. Based upon some of the preparation already visible at the facilities, it will probably be sooner rather than later.

Is any gambling legal in Arkansas?

Yes. Surprisingly, Arkansas dove headfirst into gambling with the November 2018 referendum. The same measure that legalized sports betting also called for the establishment of up to four Vegas-style casinos. There are also multiple horse tracks available in the state.

What is the legal gambling age in Arkansas?

21, for the most part, although 18-year-olds can bet on horses.

Is Bovada legal in Arkansas?

No. Bovada, MyBookie and other offshore sportsbooks exist in a grey legal area. Exercise caution if you choose to play on these sites, as they are not legal, regulated American companies. In the case of disputes, recouping one’s loss may prove quite difficult.

Can I bet with my friends legally in Arkansas?

Generally speaking, no. Arkansas is a state without much leeway for gambling, and until recently, was hostile to most expressions of it. Though times may be changing there, it is still a bad idea to gamble privately in the Natural State.

Recent Arkansas News

One Year After PASPA Repeal, Sports Betting Legislation Appears In More Than 75% Of US

May 14, 2019

US Supreme Court decision to overturn PASPA opened up the floodgates for sports betting legislation, making it one of the key policy issues at state level.

The post One Year After PASPA Repeal, Sports Betting Legislation Appears In More Than 75% Of US appeared first on Legal Sports Report.

The First Arkansas Sportsbook Is ‘Coming Soon’ To West Memphis

March 12, 2019

How close is Arkansas sports betting to reality? It depends on how one of the state's racetrack casinos defines "soon."

The post The First Arkansas Sportsbook Is ‘Coming Soon’ To West Memphis appeared first on Legal Sports Report.

Arkansas Sports Betting Rules Clear Key Hurdle As State Inches Toward Launch

February 22, 2019

The state racing commission pushed Arkansas sports betting a step closer to reality Thursday by approving governing rules. The Arkansas Racing Commission issued proposed rules in January following state voters approving legal sports betting in November.

The post Arkansas Sports Betting Rules Clear Key Hurdle As State Inches Toward Launch appeared first on Legal Sports Report.