A recently released economic impact study by the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association of Oklahoma indicated the state has collected nearly billion from tribal gaming operations—far greater than the million in annual gaming revenue forecast by the Tribal-State Gaming Act of 2004.
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker said the study results show “tribal governments have and will continue to make our state stronger and better for all Oklahomans.” He added, “For the Cherokee Nation and other tribes in Oklahoma, gaming represents economic opportunities that improve the lives of our tribal citizens. But secondary economic impacts from gaming revenues are equally important. The direct revenue we pay to the state of Oklahoma is significant, but the Cherokee Nation and other tribes also support thousands and thousands of jobs. That impact on Oklahoma families is immeasurable.”
Cherokee Nation Entertainment Chief Operating Officer Mark Fulton noted, “When Oklahomans approved tribal gaming, it led the way for a new entertainment and tourism market in Oklahoma. Tribes have since transformed the gaming industry into an entertainment and hospitality experience. These entertainment destinations are driving tourism throughout the state and are proven assets when working to grow the local economy. Gaming has also allowed tribes to pursue other economic development activities, diversify into other areas of business and make investments in their communities. These activities fuel job creation and more spending in state and local economies.”
