The bill amends various sections of the Arkansas Code to prohibit greyhound racing and the simulcasting of greyhound racing. It introduces new definitions for "casino licensee" and "franchise holder," and explicitly prohibits these entities from accepting wagers on greyhound racing, whether live or simulcast, and from conducting greyhound racing altogether. The bill also modifies existing laws to remove references to greyhound racing in contexts such as pari-mutuel wagering and the definition of electronic games of skill, ensuring that only horse racing remains governed under those provisions.
Additionally, the bill establishes an effective date of January 1, 2028, for these changes. This legislative action reflects a significant shift in the regulation of racing in Arkansas, aiming to eliminate greyhound racing from the state's gambling landscape.
Statutes affected: HB 1721: 23-111-508(d), 23-113-103(5), 23-113-603(a), 23-115-103(13)
Act 394: 23-111-508(d), 23-113-103(5), 23-113-603(a), 23-115-103(13)