Saracen Casino, located in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, is making headlines as it challenges the state’s laws on online gambling. The casino, owned and operated by the Quapaw Nation, recently announced plans to launch an online gambling platform that would allow players to wager on casino games from the comfort of their own homes.
This move has sparked controversy in Arkansas, where online gambling is currently illegal. Under state law, only licensed casinos are allowed to offer gambling services, and all betting must take place on the casino premises. However, Saracen Casino argues that the laws are outdated and do not address the realities of modern technology.
In response to Saracen Casino’s plans, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, one of the state’s leading gambling facilities, has vowed to fight back against the online gambling expansion. Oaklawn’s general manager, Wayne Smith, expressed concern over the potential impact of online gambling on traditional brick-and-mortar casinos, as well as the potential for increased problem gambling.
“We believe that online gambling poses a significant threat to the integrity of the industry and to the well-being of our patrons,” Smith said in a statement. “We will do everything in our power to prevent Saracen Casino from engaging in this illegal activity.”
Despite Oaklawn’s objections, Saracen Casino remains determined to move forward with its online gambling platform. In a statement, Quapaw Nation Chairman John Berrey emphasized the economic benefits that online gambling could bring to Pine Bluff and the surrounding communities.
“We believe that online gambling is the way of the future, and we are committed to providing our customers with the best possible gaming experience,” Berrey said. “We are confident that our online platform will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.”
The battle between Saracen Casino and Oaklawn is likely to continue in the coming weeks, with both sides gearing up for a legal showdown. In the meantime, players in Arkansas will be watching closely to see how this high-stakes dispute plays out.
