Oklahoma tribal leaders unite in gaming compacts stance

Image: MGN

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Leaders of 29 Oklahoma tribal nations have sent a letter to Gov. Kevin Stitt stating that they believe the current compacts governing tribal casinos in the state will automatically renew.
The letter dated Tuesday and signed by 30 officials representing the 29 tribes was released on Friday by Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association Chairman Matt Morgan.
It states that the tribal officials believe the compact renews automatically on January 1st, that rates set by the compact should not change, and that Stitt has the right to request a renegotiation of the rates. It asks that Stitt send his proposal to each tribe for consideration.
Tribal leaders say they were surprised by Stitt’s July 8th editorial in the Tulsa World suggesting that the compacts be reevaluated now that the gambling industry has matured in Oklahoma.