Last year, State Rep. Ken Luttrell introduced legislation to legalize sports betting in Oklahoma. It failed to come up for a vote. He just pre-filed a House bill he hopes will garner a better reception. If signed into law, the legislation would allow sports betting in tribal casinos and racetracks in the state, according to PlayUSA.
One difference this year is Governor Kevin Stitt is more open to sports betting in Oklahoma in general and Lutrell’s proposal in particular.
Stitt Tweeted he is open to sports betting in Oklahoma, as long as it is “fair, transparent, and the state can maximize revenue potential to invest in top priorities, like education.”
Luttrell said: “Hopefully, I can reassure him that the percentages that are in this bill, on the fees are fair, fair to the tribes, and fair to all Oklahomans.”
House Bill 1027 could receive its initial reading on February 6. The Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association hasn’t commented yet.
Matthew L. Morgan, the chairman of the Association, told KOCO 5:
“We are currently reviewing the bill and will be meeting with association member tribes to discuss. As in the past, we will proceed accordingly with the consensus of our members.”
