Saracen Casino Proposes Online Gaming Expansion in Arkansas

25.04.2024

Saracen Casino Resort has officially approached the Arkansas Racing Commission with a proposal to expand the scope of online gambling in the state.

This request aims to clarify and amend existing gaming regulations to include various forms of online gambling beyond the already sanctioned online poker.

Potential Benefits Outlined

Carlton Saffa, Saracen’s Chief Market Officer, will present the casino’s case to the commission on May 6.

He argues that the state’s gaming law, established by voter approval six years ago, which allowed for the creation of four physical casinos and the introduction of online poker and betting, is open to interpretation regarding other forms of online gambling.

Saffa suggests that by amending Rule 5 of the Arkansas Racing Commission’s regulations, the state could formally authorize online table games and slots.

Economic and Sector Impact

Saffa has expressed optimism about the integration of online gambling, suggesting that it would not harm land-based casino operations but rather enhance them.

According to his projections, this expansion could potentially raise an additional $12 million in tax revenues.

This proposal positions online gaming not as a competitor to physical casinos but as a complementary offering that could boost the overall gaming market in Arkansas.