SB539

Senate Bill 539 amends the structure and oversight responsibilities of the Arkansas Racing Commission. The bill increases the number of commission members from seven to eleven, specifically requiring that four of the members be consumers with no financial or professional affiliation to Arkansas casino licensees or vendors. It formally codifies the commission's duties regarding the regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering. Specifically, the commission is tasked with establishing rules, investigating license holders and allegations of illegal gambling, and reviewing state tax collections related to gaming. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the commission refer evidence of illegal gambling to law enforcement and submit an annual report regarding its activities to the Legislative Council or the Joint Budget Committee.