The Oklahoma Senate has passed a bill allowing retail and online sports betting at tribal casinos, with a potential involvement from the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder. Senate Bill 585, narrowly approved with 25 in favor, includes provisions for each of Oklahoma’s 38 recognized tribes to operate sportsbooks on tribal land. The measure, overseen by the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission, represents progress in the state’s sports betting debate since the 2018 federal ban lift.
An amendment in the bill offers the Thunder a license for a sportsbook partnership, allowing mobile betting beyond tribal boundaries, including in Oklahoma City. Revenue from Thunder’s sportsbook would be shared among participating tribes under the state’s Model Tribal Gaming Compact. Estimated to generate $20 million annually in tax revenue, with a 10% tax on online sports betting revenue.
Governor Kevin Stitt, favoring a more open-market model and opposing tribe exclusivity, such as lobbyists, may be swayed by the Thunder provision. The bill faces an uncertain future in the House, as the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association shows a willingness to compromise. Chair Matthew Morgan expressed tribal inclusivity within legal parameters. Plans remain for House discussions on this potentially landmark sports betting legislation.
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