GOVERNOR STITT RELEASES STATEMENT REGARDING U.S. DISTRICT COURT RULING ON GAMING COMPACTS

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 23, 2020) – Governor Kevin Stitt announced today he will not appeal the U.S. District Court ruling issued July 28 regarding the State-Tribal Gaming Compacts.

Gov. Stitt issued the following statement about his decision:

“The U.S. District Court has ruled the Model Tribal Gaming Compacts automatically renewed for another 15 years. While I have chosen not to appeal this decision, I believe that the people of Oklahoma will demand a fair deal that benefits all 4 million Oklahomans.

Our state is facing unprecedented uncertainty as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma. Therefore, it is essential for state and tribal leaders to join together to resolve the challenges this ruling presents for Oklahomans and their businesses.

For Oklahoma to become a Top Ten state, we must work together to find solutions that respect the unique relationship between the State of Oklahoma and its tribal citizens, and that provide certainty and fairness for all Oklahomans. 

Our state agencies regularly cooperate with the tribes on matters involving public safety, health care, human services, transportation, education, the environment, energy and many other areas. I hope this can continue, as together we are “One Oklahoma.”

I look forward to working with our Congressional delegation, state officials and Oklahoma’s tribal nations to create an environment of fairness, clarity and unity that serves all 4 million Oklahomans.”

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