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HJR1019

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution To Remove References To Greyhound Racing From Arkansas Constitution, Amendment 100.

Failed

Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.

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AI-Generated Summary

House Joint Resolution 1019 proposes an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution to remove references to greyhound racing from Amendment 100. This action is prompted by the fact that no entity currently holds a franchise to conduct greyhound racing in the state. The resolution updates the distribution of net casino gaming receipt taxes and removes requirements for contributions to greyhound racing purses and greyhound breeding activities. It maintains existing provisions related to horse racing while cleaning up constitutional language to reflect the current status of the industry. If passed by the legislature, the proposal would be submitted to Arkansas voters in a general election. The changes are slated to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries include existing casino operators who will no longer be subject to constitutional mandates or tax distribution requirements related to greyhound racing. The State of Arkansas also benefits by updating its governing document to accurately reflect the cessation of the greyhound racing industry, thereby removing potentially obsolete administrative and legal requirements.

Who Might Suffer?

Entities or individuals previously supported by greyhound racing, such as greyhound breeders, owners, and trainers, are the primary groups negatively impacted. By removing the constitutional requirement for casino gaming receipts to be allocated toward greyhound purses and breeding awards, these stakeholders lose a dedicated funding source that was previously guaranteed under the state constitution.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us