In a shocking turn of events, a special master has recommended disqualifying thousands of signatures gathered for an anti-casino measure in Arkansas. The measure, which seeks to prohibit the construction of new casinos in the state, has been a hotly contested issue with passionate advocates on both sides.
The special master, appointed by the Arkansas Supreme Court, found that a significant number of signatures on the petition were invalid due to a variety of reasons, including illegibility, failure to match voter registration records, and missing notary signatures. In total, over 6,000 signatures were deemed ineligible, which could potentially invalidate the entire petition.
The decision comes just weeks before the deadline for the measure to be certified for the November ballot, leaving supporters scrambling to gather additional signatures to meet the threshold required by law. Proponents of the measure have vowed to challenge the special master’s recommendation and are prepared to take legal action if necessary to ensure the measure appears on the ballot.
The controversy surrounding the anti-casino measure has highlighted the deep divisions within the state over the issue of gambling. Supporters argue that new casinos would bring much-needed revenue and economic development to Arkansas, while opponents believe that expanded gambling would have negative social and economic consequences.
The special master’s recommendation has added a new layer of uncertainty to an already contentious debate, with both sides gearing up for a fierce battle in the coming weeks. As the deadline looms, all eyes will be on the Arkansas Supreme Court to determine the fate of the anti-casino measure and the thousands of signatures now in question.