Best Sweepstakes Social Casinos in Arkansas
Arkansas sweepstakes online casinos offer casino enthusiasts a similar experience through their casino-style games. As a result, Arkansans can enjoy these titles without spending money and breaking the law.
The experience starts with a simple registration process where you need to fill out a sign-up form with personal info like name, e-mail, phone number and address. The sweepstakes casino sites must verify that you are allowed to play on their site. In other words, the operator must confirm you meet the legal age requirement and you are located in a legal jurisdiction.
When you register, you will get free virtual currency. There are two types of currencies on the site:
Gold coins: The main virtual currency used for free play.
Sweepstake coins: Virtual coins with no $ value used in prize-eligible games.
If you wish to (but remember, you don’t have to), you can purchase the virtual currency through promotions.
Of course, you can also win with sweep coins, leading to real prizes, which you redeem following the steps provided by the casino you chose. Normally, you’d need to exchange the sweepstakes coins for gift vouchers or other prizes.
If you want to play in some of the best sweepstakes casinos in Arkansas, we’ve handpicked some good options for fully legal online gaming:
Are sweepstakes casinos legal in Arkansas?
Yes, they are. It’s worth noting, though, that you won’t be able to win money directly. But you can play casino-like games like roulette, blackjack, and hundreds of slots from renowned software providers.
Can I win real money playing at Arkansas social sweepstake casinos?
No, you won’t be able to win real cash on social sweepstakes sites in Arizona. Bear in mind that if you play with sweepstake coins, you can redeem the winnings for vouchers and cash prizes.
Can I claim bonuses at Arkansas sweepstakes casinos?
No, you don’t get traditional casino bonuses at social casinos. Instead, you can use other perks like discounts on coin packages and refer-a-friend bonus, to name a few.
Arkansas Sweepstakes Casinos: Legal Insights and History
Similar to some other US states, Arkansas still doesn’t have a fully regulated online casino market. In fact, these platforms are explicitly forbidden. However, different forms of gaming, such as online sports-books, racinos, and sports betting at three physical casinos in the state have been legal since November 2018.
Sweepstakes casinos in Arkansas are a risk-free alternative to casino games for eager players who want to enjoy them daily. Social casinos featuring the sweepstakes model offer a legal way to play casino-style games while completely complying with state and federal laws.
In our article, we’ll debunk all myths and discuss the historical gambling timeline in the Bear State, the legal framework that shapes the market today, and the best solutions for Arkansans.
Legal Framework for Sweepstakes Casinos in Arkansas
Both federal and state laws regulate legal gaming operations in Arkansas. The Arkansas Racing Commission (ARC) is responsible for licensing and overseeing the authorized operators in the state, as per the 2005 Games of Skill Act, Ark. Code §§ 23-113-101, which legalized gaming machines and licensed pari-mutuel racetracks.
The ballot referendum in November 2018 legalized and authorized state casinos to offer casino games and sports betting services. This constitutional amendment paved the way for the four casino licenses: two in Pope and Jefferson counties and two for each existing racetrack.
Despite the ARC’s strict rules and licensing process, there are no statutory funding requirements for responsible gaming or self-exclusion. Furthermore, there are no Indian casinos in the state.
The legal framework for sweepstakes casinos in Arkansas allows them to operate in the state completely legally due to a business model that doesn’t involve direct monetary exchange.
The ARC oversees all gaming operators and providers in Arkansas, including sweepstakes social casinos. The 2022 Arkansas Casino Gaming Rules feature a detailed outline of all operations on these sites. The commission ensures that the operators adhere to the set standards.
The Arkansas Code Title 5, Subtitle 6, Chapter 66 gives direct instructions that sweepstakes casinos mustn’t require a purchase to enter the site, play the games or win. Also, it directly states that transactions must not influence all gaming outcomes.
In addition to state law, federal laws also regulate sweepstakes. The FTC provides guidelines on how marketing and promotions can be offered.
History of Sweepstakes in Arkansas
Gaming activities in Arkansas date back to 1874, when the state prohibited lotteries, amongst other forms of gambling.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the beginnings of underground operations and horse racing began. Things remained steady until 1905, when Oaklawn Park opened in Hot Springs, promoting horse racing services to residents.
The 50s and 60s marked a complete decline, with small improvements in 1975 and 1987 when pari-mutuel betting and dog racing were legalized at Southland Greyhound Park in West Memphis.
In 2005, electronic games of skill like video poker and slot machines became legal. Further, in 2008, voters finally approved a state lottery with the purpose of funding education. The state lottery is still active today and funds the education of hundreds of students.
Sweepstakes in Arkansas have been legal for a long time, even before transitioning into the modern internet-based ecosystem.
The act that initially regulated sweepstakes and prize promotions was the 1995 Prize Promotion Act or Act 736. The legislation was introduced as Senate Bill 381 and was approved in the same year.
No other law directly regulates modern sweepstakes social casinos. Despite that, these social gaming platforms remain legal as long as they comply with the regulations in that act.
