Cherokee Nation Sues Arkansas Over Casino License

Following the passage of Arkansas’ Issue 2, which revokes a casino license awarded to Cherokee Nation Entertainment for a $300 million project in Pope County, the Cherokee Nation has filed a federal lawsuit against the state. The amendment, approved by 56% of voters, nullifies the license granted under Amendment 100 in 2018, which had permitted the establishment of casinos in several counties. A federal judge recently denied the Cherokee Nation's request for a temporary restraining order to halt the implementation of Issue 2, indicating doubts about the likelihood of success for their constitutional claims. The lawsuit argues that Issue 2 infringes on due process and contract rights, while the Cherokee Nation asserts significant investments have been made based on the earlier license. The legal battle continues as the state prepares to defend the amendment, which aims to ensure local support for casino projects in the future. This ongoing dispute highlights the complexities and controversies surrounding casino developments in Arkansas, particularly in Pope County.