State lawmakers in Oklahoma are making a push to legalize sports betting in the state, as a Senate committee passed three bills aimed at getting the job done this year. Led by State Sen. Dave Rader, lawmakers are concerned about the money flowing out of Oklahoma into neighboring states where sports betting is legal, such as Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri.
The bills, aimed at bringing in the tribes, the state, and the Oklahoma City Thunder, have bipartisan approval but are not without their concerns. Some lawmakers worry about the impact on lower-income Oklahomans and whether the tribes are being adequately involved in the process.
Casinos like River Spirit in south Tulsa are ready for sports betting, pending legalization. The bills will be further refined through upcoming meetings with stakeholders, with the goal of finalizing a grand bargain by the end of May.
While State Sen. Lisa Standridge expressed reservations about gambling as a revenue source, others, such as State Sen. Bill Coleman, are determined to move forward with legalizing sports betting. Meetings with the tribes and the Oklahoma City Thunder are scheduled for the coming weeks, with hopes of reaching an agreement to propel Oklahoma into the world of legal sports betting.
The bills will now move on to the full Senate for consideration, with expected changes before the final vote. Gov. Kevin Stitt will also play a role in the process, as both sides work towards reaching a resolution on the issue.
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