Both Texas and Oklahoma remain among the few states without legalized sports betting. However, Oklahoma stands a better chance of moving forward in 2024, as the state has a legislative session on the horizon. In contrast, Texas will have to wait until 2025, with internal divisions within the Republican Party making the future of sports betting in the Lone Star State uncertain.
In Oklahoma, Governor Kevin Stitt has expressed strong support for sports betting legalization and aims to push for it in the next session. Earlier efforts made significant progress, but a pro-legalization bill failed to pass the Senate committee just before a crucial legislative deadline. Still, Stitt remains optimistic, and discussions about how to structure sports betting are ongoing.
Tribal Partnerships Central to Oklahoma’s Sports Betting Debate
A major hurdle in Oklahoma’s sports betting push revolves around tribal involvement. Stitt has faced challenges in finding common ground with tribal leaders, a key factor considering the state’s reliance on Native American gaming operations. The recent Supreme Court decision not to challenge the Seminole Tribe’s compact in Florida has spurred conversations about creating a similar agreement in Oklahoma. However, Governor Stitt has been labeled as a “roadblock” by critics who argue that his approach does not adequately include tribal interests.
Matthew Morgan, chairman of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, emphasized the importance of collaboration between tribal governments and the state, noting that respectful and lawful negotiations are essential for any compact to work.
In November, Stitt laid out his vision for sports betting legalization, which includes a dual system allowing both in-person betting at tribal facilities and mobile betting statewide. His plan also aims to protect student-athletes by banning prop bets on their individual performances.
Stitt’s goal is to strike a fair and transparent agreement that benefits both the state and tribal interests, but finding that balance remains a complex task.
Sourse : https://www.playtexas.com/news/oklahoma-closer-legalizing-sports-betting-than-texas/