Mobile sports betting in Arkansas could be ready for March Madness
Gamble USA strives to improve your online gambling experience. We aim to help you play safely, make informed decisions when gambling, and increase your betting knowledge through our guides.
We adhere to strict editorial integrity; our content may contain links to products from our licensed & legal US partners.
Arkansas Mobile Sports Betting Could Launch by SEC Basketball Tournament
If it receives the final approval next week, Arkansas mobile sports wagering could be up and running in time for the Southeastern Conference men’s basketball tournament.
Arkansas Razorbacks will be well Backed
The 2022 version of the SEC tournament is due to take place March 9-13 at Amalie Arena in Tampa. The Arkansas Razorbacks are ranked No. 23 nationally, will likely attract heavy betting interest in the Natural State.
The tournament’s final day occurs on Selection Sunday; the date teams are selected to take part in the NCAA Tournament, also referred to as March Madness. The Razorbacks are projected to be in the NCAA Tournament, which kicks off on March 15.
The final four teams will progress to New Orleans for a chance to win the national title. The semi-final games are slated for April 2 at the Caesars Superdome, with the final scheduled for April 4.
Sports Betting Rules
The start of mobile sports wagering in Arkansas depends on a legislative committee scheduled for this week. The Joint Budget Committee will vote Tuesday on a rule permitting statewide mobile betting off casino property. There are three casinos in Arkansas.
On Thursday, the Joint Budget Administrative Rule Review Committee passed a critical rule legalizing mobile sports betting anywhere in the state. The rule also allows local casinos 51% of profits in partnering with national online gaming operators such as FanDuel and DraftKings. These operators typically share 5-15%. Rules approved in the subcommittee require a final sign-off from the full Joint Budget Committee.
On Thursday, the Joint Budget Committee adopted four sports betting framework rules that the subcommittee previously approved. The fifth rule, which is necessary for mobile betting to begin, is awaiting action next week.
If the committee approves the proposed rule, it will be filed at the secretary of state’s office for ten business days. Using that timeframe, sports wagering could launch before the first games are played at the SEC tournament.
The launch of mobile sports betting then would depend upon whether Arkansas casinos can launch mobile apps in time for the tournament in Tampa. The casinos also can partner with national online gambling operators.
Arkansas Sportsbook Revenue Rises in January
Although off-site mobile sports wagering is not yet available in Arkansas, players can wager in-person at sportsbooks and kiosks inside the state’s three casinos.
According to Arkansas Racing Commission figures released Friday, these casinos took in a combined $8.77 million in sports wagers in January. This was an increase from the $7.79 million handle in December.
Relevant news
Top 6 Renowned Casino Software Providers for 2023
In recent years, the iGaming industry has been one of the most competitive fields, and…
Top 10 Most-Watched Sports in the USA in 2023
The number of sports fans in the US and around the world has increased steadily…
Sports Betting Advances in North Carolina
Sports betting in North Carolina takes another step forward as latest sports betting Bill progresses…
Mattress Mack has his say on responsible gambling
A $75 million sports wagering win can buy you lots of things, but one of…
Can You Use a Prepaid Card on DraftKings?
As one of the most popular DFS and sports betting providers in the US, you…
SBK to launch new sportsbook in Indiana
SBK to launch sportsbook in Indiana The SBK sportsbook app developed by Smarkets will be…