Oklahoma is making progress towards legalizing sports betting with two bills passing a House subcommittee vote. House Bills 1047 and 1101, sponsored by Rep. Ken Luttrell, aim to allow Native American tribes to offer sports betting through state gaming compacts, with HB 1101 serving as a backup measure triggering a voter referendum if needed.
While the bills have advanced, they still face obstacles such as tribal consent and potential opposition from Governor Kevin Stitt. Tribal interests and existing compacts are crucial considerations, as emphasized by the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association (OIGA) chairman Matthew L. Morgan.
Governor Stitt’s prior efforts to introduce sports betting were met with tribal opposition due to concerns about commercial sportsbooks being allowed alongside tribal operators, which could threaten their gaming exclusivity. Tribal nations are reluctant to negotiate with the current administration and may prefer to wait for a new governor after Stitt’s term ends in 2026.
Senate Bill 125, introduced by Sen. Dave Rader, proposes a tiered tax structure for sports betting revenue and requires tribal approval before offering retail and online sports betting. With Oklahoma being the second-largest Indian gaming state, discussions around sports betting involve intricate negotiations and considerations, including revenue shares with the state and federal approval to amend tribal gaming compacts.
The legislation emphasizes collaboration with tribal leaders, ensuring that tribal input shapes the final regulatory framework for sports betting in Oklahoma. The bills’ progress signals a significant step towards establishing a regulated sports betting market in the state, but challenges and negotiations lie ahead before legalization can be fully realized.
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