Online Gambling Laws in Arkansas: Current Legal Status & State Regulations

By Michael Harrison

April 25, 2025 at 03:03 AM

Online gambling in Arkansas exists in a complex legal landscape. As of 2024, Arkansas has not specifically legalized online gambling, but certain forms of gambling are permitted within the state.

Let me break down the current legal status of online gambling in Arkansas:

Sports betting is legal in Arkansas, but with restrictions. While mobile sports betting was approved in 2022, you must be physically present within state borders to place bets through licensed operators. Currently, only a handful of approved casinos offer mobile sports betting apps.

Casino gambling online remains illegal in Arkansas. The state has not passed legislation to permit online casino games, including slots, poker, or table games. The only legal casino gambling occurs at Arkansas's four licensed brick-and-mortar casinos.

Daily fantasy sports (DFS) operate in a gray area. While not explicitly legal or illegal, major DFS operators like DraftKings and FanDuel continue to accept players from Arkansas.

Here are the key points about gambling laws in Arkansas:

Legal forms of gambling:
- In-person casino gaming at licensed facilities
- Mobile sports betting through approved operators
- State lottery
- Charitable gaming (bingo and raffles)

Illegal forms of gambling:
- Online casino games
- Online poker
- Offshore gambling websites
- Unlicensed betting operations

The penalties for illegal gambling in Arkansas can be serious. Operating an illegal gambling business is a Class D felony, while participating in illegal gambling is a Class A misdemeanor.

If you're interested in legal gambling options in Arkansas, I recommend sticking to:

  • Licensed retail casinos
  • Approved mobile sportsbooks
  • The state lottery
  • Licensed charitable gaming events

Keep in mind that gambling laws can change, and it's always best to check current regulations before participating in any form of gambling. Additionally, you must be 21 or older to gamble legally in Arkansas.

For the most up-to-date information, consult the Arkansas Racing Commission or seek legal counsel, as they can provide the latest guidance on gambling regulations in the state.

Remember that even if you access offshore gambling sites that accept Arkansas players, participating in unauthorized online gambling could violate state law and put your money at risk.

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