Tribal Chiefs Urge Oklahoma Governor's Support for Tribal-Led Sports Betting

Tribal Chiefs expressed their concerns during a webcast titled "The New Normal," hosted by Victor Rocha and Jason Giles of the Indian Gaming Association. Matthew Morgan, Chairman of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, voiced apprehensions about the recent acquisition of the Dallas Mavericks NBA team by Miriam Adelson.

The Adelson family, known for controlling the Las Vegas Sands Corp., has committed to purchasing the majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks for $3.5 billion. Tribal circles worry as the Adelsons actively lobby for gambling legalization in Texas, potentially leading to a new arena with an integrated casino, according to Mark Cuban's vision.

Governor Stitt, a Cherokee Nation member, proposed a sports betting plan for Oklahoma, including a 15% tax rate on tribal casino sports betting and a 20% tax on mobile licenses with a $500,000 license fee. Tribal leaders find this proposal surprising and impractical, casting doubt on its feasibility despite the governor's revenue diversification efforts.

Jason Giles criticized the proposed tax rates, emphasizing Oklahoma's robust gambling industry and its growth potential. He called for a more forward-thinking strategy, considering economic diversification beyond the state's reliance on the oil market. Giles highlighted regional competition from neighboring states and stressed the need for strategic planning to maintain Oklahoma's gaming industry competitiveness.

Morgan echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Oklahoma pioneering sports betting before other states. Despite economic concerns, he expressed optimism about the resilience of Oklahoma's gaming industry, citing ongoing investments by tribal nations in casino properties, including recent openings and renovations across the state.