LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — The Arkansas Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a legal challenge to a ballot measure that would revoke a casino’s license, paving the way for voters to decide the fate of the controversial gaming establishment.
The court’s decision comes after a group called Citizens for a Better Arkansas filed a lawsuit against the proposed measure, arguing that it was unconstitutional and would unfairly damage the casino’s business interests. The measure, known as Issue 4, would allow voters to decide whether to revoke a casino license that was issued to the Cherokee Nation Businesses in 2020 for a casino in Pope County.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court sided with supporters of Issue 4, saying that the measure was legally sound and within the rights of voters to decide the issue. “While we understand the concerns raised by the casino, we must respect the will of the people and allow them to have a say in this matter,” Chief Justice John Doe wrote in the court’s decision.
The Cherokee Nation Businesses has faced scrutiny over its handling of the license approval process, with critics claiming that the company did not have proper authorization to operate a casino in Pope County. The Arkansas Racing Commission, which granted the license to the Cherokee Nation, has also faced criticism for its handling of the situation.
Supporters of Issue 4 argue that the casino’s license was granted under questionable circumstances and that voters should have the final say on whether the establishment should be allowed to operate in the state. “This is about accountability and transparency in the gaming industry,” said Jane Smith, a spokesperson for Citizens for a Better Arkansas. “We believe that the people of Arkansas should have a say in who operates casinos in their state.”
The Cherokee Nation Businesses has vowed to fight the measure and protect its investment in the Pope County casino. “We will continue to defend our right to operate in Arkansas and provide jobs and economic opportunities for the people of the state,” said Cherokee Nation spokesperson John Doe.
Issue 4 will now be placed on the ballot for the upcoming election in November, giving Arkansas voters the opportunity to weigh in on the future of the controversial casino. The outcome of the vote could have far-reaching implications for the gaming industry in the state and set a precedent for how licenses are awarded and revoked in the future.
