Arkansas Casino pushes for iGaming legalization, move could have national implications for the industry

Carlton Saffa, Chief Market Officer at Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff, is pushing for the legalization of online casino gambling, or iGaming, in Arkansas, a move that could have national implications for the industry.

Saffa’s proposal also includes the creation of a 50/50 online drawing, with half the funds going to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) funding to help recruit athletes to Arkansas universities. The other half would go to the drawing’s winner.

While Saffa’s plans have garnered support from some lawmakers and university athletic boosters, they face resistance from the governor’s administration and from Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs. The proposal has raised concerns about the potential impact on the state’s existing gaming industry and scholarship lottery.

Saffa discussed his efforts on Gambling.com’s podcast "The Edge," where he indicated that if he is unable to secure approval from the Arkansas Racing Commission, he may seek legislative approval in the next session. 

"I have been approached by a number of state legislators offering to run legislation to authorize this," Saffa said.

Carlton Saffa

Sports betting is already legal in Arkansas, with both in-casino sportsbooks and mobile apps, including Saracen’s BetSaracen app. The expansion to iGaming, however, would allow users to play traditional casino games such as slots and blackjack on their phones.

Jim Hudson, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, cautioned against rushing into such a significant expansion of gaming in the state. 

"Saffa’s plans represent a major expansion of gaming in Arkansas and should not be rushed into without understanding its impact on our state," Hudson said in a statement to Gambling.com.

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort has voiced concerns that the proposed online drawing for NIL funding could divert money from the state’s scholarship lottery. Additionally, Oaklawn fears that iGaming could reduce the number of visitors to brick-and-mortar casinos, potentially impacting revenue across the state’s gambling sector.

Arkansas’ other major casino, Southland Casino Hotel in West Memphis, has yet to publicly comment on the proposal.