Oklahoma Advances Sports Betting Legislation Amid Tribal Concerns
Oklahoma City, OK – In a significant development for the state’s gaming industry, the Oklahoma Senate Business and Insurance Committee has advanced three sports betting bills, signaling a potential shift in the state’s approach to legalized wagering.
Senate Bill 125, authored by Senator Dave Rader, proposes that tribes with existing gaming compacts be permitted to offer sports pools, including mobile betting, on the outcomes of sports events. This measure would require tribes to supplement their current compacts, with exclusivity fees ranging from 5% to 7%. The bill passed with a 9-2 vote and is now set to proceed to the Senate Appropriations Committee. (ictnews.org)
Senate Bill 164, introduced by Senator Casey Murdock, seeks to authorize the Oklahoma Lottery Commission to regulate sports betting. The proposal includes an initial license fee of $500,000, an annual renewal fee of $100,000, and mandates that 15% of the adjusted gross revenue from sports pools be allocated to the Lottery Commission. This bill narrowly advanced with a 6-5 vote and will also move to the Senate Appropriations Committee. (ictnews.org)
Senate Bill 585, sponsored by Senator Bill Coleman, aims to grant the Oklahoma City Thunder a gaming license for sports betting. The proposal envisions tribes operating in-person and mobile sports betting on tribal land, while the Thunder would manage mobile sports betting on non-tribal land. The state would receive 10% of the net sportsbook revenues, estimated at $20 million annually. This bill passed with an 8-2 vote and is slated for the Senate floor. (ictnews.org)
Despite these advancements, concerns have been raised regarding potential conflicts with existing tribal gaming compacts. Senator Mark Mann expressed apprehension that Senate Bill 164 could violate exclusivity provisions, potentially leading to financial repercussions for the state. (ictnews.org)
Senator Coleman acknowledged the need for negotiations between the state, tribes, and other stakeholders to address these concerns. He emphasized that the bills serve as tools for ongoing discussions aimed at finding a mutually agreeable framework for sports betting in Oklahoma. (ictnews.org)
As the legislative process continues, stakeholders await further developments, with the potential for significant economic impact and a redefined gaming landscape in Oklahoma.
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