While tensions likely remain high between Oklahoma tribes and Gov. Kevin Stitt, the governor renewed a push for his sports betting plan on Monday.
Stitt’s office released his plan in November 2023, including commercial online Oklahoma sports betting. The governor has repeatedly pushed for sports betting with commercial interests, while the powerful tribal community has rejected the ideas.
“If the Legislature is going to pass sports betting in Oklahoma, it needs to be a fair deal for everyone — not just the tribes,” he posted on Twitter, linking to his 2023 proposal. “I rolled out a solid, fair plan over a year ago.”
Likely not a needle-mover
Stitt first attempted to legalize sports betting through two updated tribal compacts in 2020. Multiple tribes in the state disagreed with the move, and ultimately, the state’s attorney general ruled it illegal.
Since then, tribal relations with the governor have remained icy, and even the governor’s own Republican Party is weary of his efforts. Legislative leadership has threatened to overtake negotiations in the past.
Stitt’s plan did not move any needles during last year’s legislative session. Earlier this year, his office told local media that tribal exclusivity is a “no-go.”
Stitt’s Oklahoma sports betting plan
Oklahoma could issue licenses for online sportsbooks, taxing the sports betting revenue at 20%.
Tribes could operate in-person sportsbooks at their recognized tribal casinos. The state would tax that revenue at 15%.
Stitt’s plan would prohibit prop bets related to student-athlete performance.
Legislative efforts shape up
Sooner State sports betting legislation giving the tribes exclusivity is already moving in the legislature. Rep. Ken Luttrell is the sponsor of the House legislation, building on his effort that passed the chamber in 2023.
Oklahoma tribes have a say on any gambling issue because of their compacts. According to the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, tribal acceptance needs to hit three requirements:
- The solution does not breach current compacts.
- It utilizes the compact supplement outlined in the compacts.
- The economics make sense for both sides.
There is Senate Bill 585, which would give the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder a license for the state’s commercial operation. According to the Oklahoma Voice, the tribes and Thunder would need to reach an agreement for it to pass, and the team and OIGA are scheduled to meet next week.
