Tensions in Oklahoma are rooted in the renewal of the state’s gaming compact, which Stitt believes no longer accurately reflects how much gross gaming revenue tribes generate in the Sooner State.
In April, Stitt reached a tentative agreement with Otoe-Missouria Tribe chairman John Shotton and Comanche Nation chairman William Nelson, to "establish clarity and certainty" and expand gaming opportunities like sports wagering for the two tribes as part of a modernised gaming compact.
But, in early May, Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter questioned the new compact’s legitimacy, saying Stitt lacks the authority to allow sports betting, which is prohibited by Oklahoma state law.
That led to the two tribes being removed as members of OIGA for the rest of 2020, based on a group bylaw.
As such, Morago does not struggle to pinpoint the “biggest hurdle” facing Oklahoma tribes.
She exclusively tells Gaming America: “When we get to the point of being able to offer sports betting, there will be appropriate discussion within each tribe to determine how or if they might choose to proceed.
“The biggest hurdle we face is still Gov. Stitt’s refusal to recognise that the gaming compacts have renewed. It’s impossible to predict the timing for the process.”
Unsurprisingly, given the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, a year does not come to Morago’s mind that “has required more flexibility.”
She adds: “Now, the tactics and situations have certainly become more dynamic and focused over the past year, and between the ongoing compact dispute with Oklahoma’s Governor and the extremely fluid situation created by COVID-19, I cannot think of a year that has required more flexibility.
“OIGA is fortunate to have very engaged leadership, who are able to meet via Zoom at a moment’s notice and work together to steady the ship as much as possible during these unprecedented times.”
You can read Morago’s full thoughts in an exclusive interview, as well as her contribution to our feature on tribal sports betting, in the July/August edition of Gaming America when it is published.
