OPINION | LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Arkansas deserves higher than unlawful gaming

On gaming legal guidelines

Jefferson County’s enterprise group is dependent upon a good, clear system that rewards those that make investments, create jobs and comply with the foundations. From small companies on Main Street to main employers, all of us thrive when the taking part in discipline is stage and state legal guidelines are upheld. That’s why Arkansas has lengthy taken care to manage gaming responsibly, guaranteeing that on line casino and racing operations not solely entertain but additionally contribute to native economies and group development.

Unfortunately, some at the moment are sidestepping these long-standing rules by means of prediction markets. These on-line platforms enable folks to wager on every little thing from sports activities scores to election outcomes below the guise of “financial contracts.” But make no mistake, if it seems to be like betting and acts like betting, it’s betting.

As Attorney General Tim Griffin has stated, prediction markets’ enterprise fashions represent playing and require licensure below Arkansas legislation.

This issues as a result of native, regulated gaming operations give again. They make use of Arkansans, generate tax income, and assist fund important companies that strengthen our communities. Insufficiently regulated prediction markets do none of that. They siphon enterprise away from licensed operators who play by the foundations, placing native jobs and income in danger.

As somebody who works daily with native employers and entrepreneurs, I understand how a lot stability and equity matter. Our state’s gaming legal guidelines had been designed to guard each customers and communities. Upholding them ensures that Arkansas companies — and the folks behind them — proceed to prosper.

Jennifer Kline, director,

Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce