Oklahoma lawmakers have made progress in advancing three sports betting bills, with each taking a different approach to bringing legal sportsbooks to the state. The bills have passed out of one chamber but face opposition from Governor Kevin Stitt and still need to pass both the House and Senate before becoming law.
One bill would allow state gaming tribes and the NBA’s Oklahoma Thunder to have sports betting licenses, with the Thunder able to partner with third-party operators for mobile bets. The tribes could open retail sportsbooks and offer mobile wagering on tribal lands. However, the tribes are opposed to any legislation that gives sports betting rights outside tribal control.
Two other bills passed by the House would give tribes exclusive sports betting rights, with one requiring a voter referendum. Governor Stitt has expressed opposition to all three proposals, seeking a model that includes outside interests in addition to tribes.
The impasse between the tribes and Stitt remains a significant hurdle to legalizing sports betting in Oklahoma. Despite the progress made, the state’s unique gaming landscape has complicated the legislative process. Tribal leaders have indicated they may consider sports betting authorization after Stitt leaves office in 2027.
With 39 states already having approved legal sports betting, Oklahoma is one of the remaining holdouts where legalization bills are being considered. The future of sports betting in the state remains uncertain as lawmakers navigate the political challenges and disputes between stakeholders.
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