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Bill

HB 1847

TO AUTHORIZE THE ARKANSAS RACING COMMISSION TO MAINTAIN A STATEWIDE SELF-EXCLUSION LIST.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mindy McAlindon and 1 co-sponsor

Arkansas Act 798 establishes a statewide self-exclusion list for casinos, enhancing responsible gaming by allowing individuals to voluntarily limit their access to gambling.

Notification that HB1847 is now Act 798
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1847

Summary of House Bill 1847 (Act 798)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1847, now known as Act 798, was introduced to authorize the Arkansas Racing Commission to maintain a statewide self-exclusion list. The primary intent of the bill is to enhance responsible gaming practices by allowing individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from entering casino facilities, thereby promoting safer gambling environments.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  • Statewide Self-Exclusion List: The Arkansas Racing Commission is empowered to maintain a centralized self-exclusion list, which will replace the existing practice where each casino maintains its own list.

  • Multi-State Participation: The Commission may join a multi-state or national self-exclusion program and can enter agreements with other states for sharing and mutual enforcement of self-exclusion lists.

  • Confidentiality: Information on the self-exclusion list is confidential and cannot be disclosed without the individual's authorization. This ensures that individuals' privacy is protected.

  • Self-Exclusion Process: Individuals can declare their intent to self-exclude from casinos, and the Commission will establish rules for:

    • Transitioning from individual casino lists to a statewide list.
    • Allowing individuals to select states for information sharing.
    • Enabling individuals to join multiple state lists using a single form.
    • Providing a process for individuals to remove themselves from the self-exclusion list.

  • Financial Implications: Costs associated with the self-exclusion program will be funded through assessments paid by casinos. Additionally, any winnings obtained by self-excluded individuals will be subject to forfeiture, with proceeds directed to the General Revenue Fund.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily affects:
- Individuals: Those who wish to self-exclude from casinos will benefit from a more streamlined and confidential process.
- Casinos: Casino operators will need to adapt to the new centralized system and ensure compliance with the Commission's rules regarding self-exclusion.
- Arkansas Racing Commission: The Commission will oversee the implementation and enforcement of the self-exclusion list.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Effective Date: The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
  • Implementation: The Arkansas Racing Commission will need time to develop rules and procedures for the new self-exclusion system. This includes educating casino licensees on the changes.

Conclusion

House Bill 1847 represents a significant step towards improving responsible gaming practices in Arkansas by providing a centralized, confidential self-exclusion process. The bill aims to protect individuals who wish to limit their gambling activities while ensuring that casinos comply with new regulations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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