Trademark dispute over Arkansas lottery names

The Arkansas Supreme Court is being asked to rule on a trademark dispute relating to the rights to the state lottery’s name.

Justices are set to decide whether to allow a Little Rock businessman’s lawsuit – claiming that he owns the rights to the name – to move forwards.

Ed Dozier recently filed a lawsuit against the Arkansas Lottery, saying he had secured the trademark to ‘Arkansas Lottery’, ‘Arkansas Lotto’ and ‘Lottery Arkansas’.

A Pulaski County judge recently denied the state’s motion to dismiss the case on grounds of sovereign immunity, reports the Associated Press.

However, the state has decided to appeal this decision.

The Arkansas state lottery was launched two years ago after voters gave their approval in 2008.

Mr. Dozier originally registered the trademarks in 1994 and used the lottery name for a radio station promotion.