Oklahoma tribes fight the state
The state’s governor and Oklahoma tribes are fighting over a potential rearrangement of the gaming compact, which expires on January 1.
US.- The tribal gaming compact in Oklahoma expires on January 1 and the tribes are fighting the state. As governor Kevin Stitt wants them to pay a larger cut, they have launched a campaign against him.
Casinos generate over US$2 billion a year, which is why Stitt wanted to take a bigger piece of it.
“The tribes are the best friend the state of Oklahoma has right now,” said Rep. Matt Meredith. “The last thing you want to do with your best friend is get in a legal battle with them.”
The state’s stance
Gov. Kevin Stitt suggested the existing compacts should be modified as the gambling industry has matured in Oklahoma.
“In this case, that means sitting down with our tribal partners to discuss how to bring these 15-year-old compacts to an agreement that reflects market conditions for the gaming industry seen around the nation today,” said Stitt.
However, according to tribe leaders, Oklahoma casinos contribute partly through such “exclusivity fees.” They assured it doesn’t include what they invest in health care, education and infrastructure that benefits the population.
