Pryor approves wording of proposed Arizona gambling amendment

Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2000 | 9:38 a.m.

Barry Emigh of North Little Rock said his proposed amendment to the state constitution would put the decision on whether to legalize gambling in the hands of communities, rather than impose a statewide plan.

Attorney General Mark Pryor approved the wording for the popular name and ballot title on Friday. The measure is the third gambling-related proposal that could appear on the 2000 general election ballot.

Organizers have until July 7 to collect 70,701 signatures of registered Arkansas voters in order to get measures on the ballot.

Emigh's proposal would open the local option for cities to legalize casinos, raffles or charitable bingo.

Only hotels with more than 10,000 square-feet could host casinos but an exception would be in place for Oaklawn Park thoroughbred race track at Hot Springs and Southland Greyhound Park at West Memphis, where pari-mutuel betting already takes place.