The 60th Oklahoma Legislature is set to convene in just a few weeks, holding its first session on February 3. While state officials and business leaders brace for a busy session, so too are the members of the state’s 38 federally recognized tribal nations, with the potential legalization of online sports betting as part of the agenda.
As the second-to-last year of Republican Governor Kevin Stitt’s tenure draws near, tribal leaders are preparing to address a range of critical issues, including new tribal compacts, economic development, and the ongoing concern over tribal sovereignty.
Tribal leaders from the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes, comprising the Cherokee, Choctaw, Seminole, Chickasaw, and Muscogee nations, have already voiced concerns over several matters.
Although they have not yet published a specific list of legislative goals, a prominent concern among tribal leaders is the relationship between their nations and the state, particularly in light of the changing political landscape. Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who is expected to pursue higher office in the near future, expressed hope that the current collaboration between tribal nations and the Oklahoma Legislature would continue.
Tribal leaders are also deeply engaged in reinvesting their income into vital sectors and diversifying their economies. In line with the latter goal, the Choctaw Nation worked on opening the Choctaw Landing resort in Hochatown. “While the casinos continue to be an excellent source of revenue, the Tribe is not immune to inflation and the higher costs of goods affecting the global community,” he explained.
Meanwhile, state lawmakers are looking at potential legislation to expand electronic sports betting, which Senator Bill Coleman refiled for consideration. Coleman expressed urgency over the issue, noting that Oklahoma risks falling behind neighboring Texas if it does not move quickly on the matter. “Texas came close two years ago, and they are fixing to go back into session,” he noted.
Sheila Morago, executive director of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, reiterated the potential for collaboration between tribal nations and the state. She emphasized that tribal leadership remains committed to finding fair solutions that respect both tribal sovereignty and the state’s interests. “We are fortunate in Indian Country to understand that true leadership is about working together to find common ground,” Morago wrote in a blog post.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2025/01/07/90940-oklahoma-39s-tribal-leaders-prepare-for-hectic-legislative-session-with-sports-betting-on-agenda
