Arkansas Supreme Court Weighing Ancient Lottery Argument

The state of Arkansas might want to catch up to the rest of the country some time soon. While other states are moving towards legalized casinos, Arkansas is still stuck on debates over a state lottery system.

The state Supreme Court is hearing arguments on whether a proposed lottery question should be on the ballot in November. Opponents are arguing that the question is vague, and would allow for legalized casinos down the road.

Proponents of the lottery point to the money that could be raised to help fund college educations for the children of the state. Both sides are passionate about their arguments, but they seem to be stuck in a battle that other states have solved years ago.

Many states have adopted lottery systems with tremendous results. Money has been made that has gone to education systems and local governments. Of the states that have legalized a state lottery, many have now began the process of exploring the effects that casinos could have on their economy.

Then there is Arkansas. Supreme Court time being used to discuss an issue that should have been explored years ago. Lottery system's in the country have worked, that is all that should be coming from the mouths of proponents.

Instead, they are stuck arguing with people who are stuck in yesterday. "I don't think anybody knows what a state lottery is," said Martha Adcock, a lawyer for the family council.

This is exactly the point, it is 2008 and the people of Arkansas still do not know what the rest of the country learned about decades ago.

October 14, 2008
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!