Arkansas Responsible Gambling: Rules, Regulations & Guidelines

Arkansas voters approved casino gaming and sports betting through Amendment 100 to the state constitution in November 2018, launching retail sports betting in July 2019 at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. The state took a methodical approach to expansion, adding mobile sports betting in March 2022 after the Arkansas Racing Commission approved rules allowing each casino to partner with up to two online sportsbook operators.

The Arkansas Racing Commission serves as the sole regulatory authority for all gambling activities in the state despite its historical focus on racing regulation. This centralized oversight model reflects Arkansas’s conservative approach to gambling expansion, integrating new gaming forms into an established regulatory framework dating back to 1935.

Arkansas’s responsible gambling framework emphasizes operator-led protections rather than state-administered programs. The state does not maintain a centralized self-exclusion list or state-operated problem gambling services. Instead, regulations require licensed casinos and online sportsbooks to implement their own self-exclusion programs, responsible gaming tools, and player protection measures.

What distinguishes Arkansas’s approach is its limited licensing structure and reliance on third-party organizations for treatment services. The state authorized only four casino licenses under Amendment 100, though legal disputes have reduced active casinos to three: Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, and Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis.

The Arkansas Problem Gambling Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2021, serves as the state’s primary advocacy and support organization for individuals affected by problem gambling. The Council operates the 24/7 helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), provides treatment provider referrals, and offers educational programs.

At a Glance

Operator-Administered Self-Exclusion Programs

Arkansas does not maintain a centralized, state-administered self-exclusion program. Instead, the Arkansas Racing Commission requires each licensed casino and online sportsbook to operate its own voluntary self-exclusion program. Individuals seeking to self-exclude must enroll separately with each casino or platform they wish to avoid.

Casinos typically offer self-exclusion enrollment through their responsible gaming departments. Individuals can request self-exclusion by visiting the casino in person, calling the casino’s responsible gaming hotline, or using the “Responsible Gambling” section of licensed mobile betting apps.

Because Arkansas does not maintain a centralized exclusion list, individuals must take responsibility for enrolling in self-exclusion programs at each gambling venue or platform they use. Self-excluded individuals who violate their exclusions may be subject to trespassing charges at physical casinos and account closure for online platforms.

Arkansas Problem Gambling Council Resources

The Arkansas Problem Gambling Council (ARPG Council) serves as the state’s primary resource for individuals affected by problem gambling and their families. Founded in 2021 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the ARPG Council provides advocacy, education, treatment support, research, and prevention services.

The ARPG Council operates the Arkansas Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). The helpline provides 24/7 access to trained counselors who can offer crisis support, treatment referrals, and information about gambling addiction. Since January 2023, the Council has facilitated over 5,500 calls from Arkansas residents seeking help.

Individuals can access ARPG Council resources by calling 1-800-GAMBLER, visiting arpgcouncil.org, or contacting info@arpgcouncil.org. The Council relies on donations and grants to fund its operations, as most services are provided at no cost to individuals seeking help.

Advertising and Marketing Standards

Advertising of legal gambling activities is permitted in Arkansas but subject to regulations established by the Arkansas Racing Commission. Licensed casinos and authorized sports betting partners may market their services through television, radio, print, and digital media channels.

All advertising must be truthful and not misleading. Marketing materials are required to include responsible gaming messages and provide resources for individuals who may need help with problem gambling. While specific message content is not mandated by statute, operators typically reference the National Council on Problem Gambling helpline (1-800-522-4700) or the Arkansas Problem Gambling Council helpline (1-800-GAMBLER).

The Arkansas Racing Commission has authority to issue cease-and-desist orders to operators engaging in unlicensed gambling activities or deceptive marketing practices.

Learn More About Responsible Gambling Regulations in Other States

• Massachusetts
• Florida
• Rhode Island
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• Michigan
• Colorado
• New Jersey
• Nevada
• Delaware

Key Takeaways

Arkansas takes a decentralized approach to responsible gambling, placing primary responsibility on operators rather than establishing state-run programs. The absence of a centralized self-exclusion list means individuals must proactively enroll in separate programs at each casino or online platform they use.

The Arkansas Problem Gambling Council fills a critical gap by providing the state’s only 24/7 helpline, treatment referrals, and educational resources. As a nonprofit organization, the Council depends on donations and grants while serving thousands of Arkansas residents annually.

Arkansas’s limited licensing structure: three active casinos and six potential mobile sportsbooks, creates a more controlled market than states with unlimited licenses. Operators must comply with responsible gaming requirements including self-exclusion programs, advertising standards, and problem gambling resource disclosures.

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