Published: September 24, 2024, 03:06h.
Last updated: September 24, 2024, 03:06h.
Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston initially approved a referendum question for the Nov. 5 ballot to change the process of approving commercial casinos. However, Thurston later stated that his office made a mistake in giving the green light for the referendum.
Issue 2, backed by Local Voters in Charge and funded by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, aims to restrict casino approvals to counties where local referendums have supported slot machines, table games, and sports betting, limiting the authority of the Arkansas Racing Commission.
Pope County residents previously opposed the state’s 2018 casino referendum that permitted four commercial casinos in specific counties, including Pope County. However, Local Voters in Charge is pushing for a more localized decision-making process regarding casino projects.
After legal disputes, the Arkansas Racing Commission selected Cherokee Nation Entertainment in June as the licensee for a $300 million resort called Legends Resort & Casino in Russellville. On the other hand, the Choctaw Nation is striving to prevent this development to protect its tribal casinos in Eastern Oklahoma.
According to Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, there were procedural errors in the approval of petitions by Local Voters in Charge, with issues related to canvassing laws and signature verification. The Arkansas Supreme Court is conducting an expedited review of these allegations.
In response, Local Voters in Charge defended their petition approval process, citing findings from an independent advisor indicating that most of the signatures met the requirements for certification on the referendum.
Pope County Judge Ben Cross and other officials support the Legends project, believing it would bring economic benefits to the area. In contrast, Local Voters in Charge emphasizes the importance of community input in deciding on casino developments.
The Arkansas Supreme Court is expected to make a decision on Issue 2 shortly after the final briefs are submitted by September 26.