(a) Except as limited by subsection (b) of this section, the term “finder’s fee” means any compensation in money in excess of the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or real or personal property valued in excess of the sum of ten thousand dollars ($10,000), which is paid or transferred or agreed to be paid or transferred to any person in consideration for the arranging or negotiation of an extension of credit to a licensee, a registered company, or applicant for licensing if the proceeds of such extension of credit are intended to be used for any of the following purposes:

1. (1) The acquisition of an interest in a gaming establishment or registered company; or
2. (2) To finance the gaming operations of a licensed gaming establishment.

(b) The term “finder’s fee” shall not include:

1. (1) Compensation to the person who extends the credit;
2. (2) Normal and customary payments to employees of the person to whom the credit is extended if the arranging or negotiation of credit is part of their normal duties;

3. (3) Normal and customary payments for bona fide professional services rendered by:

   1. (A) Lawyers;
   2. (B) Accountants;
   3. (C) Engineers; and
   4. (D) Appraisers; or
4. (4) Underwriting discounts paid to a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.

(c)

1. (1) It is an unsuitable method of operation for any licensee, registered company, or applicant for licensing or registration to pay any finder’s fee without the prior approval of the Arkansas Racing Commission, acting upon a recommendation of the commission.
2. (2) An application for approval of payment of a finder’s fee shall make a full disclosure of all material facts.
3. (3) The commission may disapprove any such application if the person to whom the finder’s fee is proposed to be paid does not demonstrate that he or she is suitable to hold a state casino license.