A new push to legalize sports betting in Oklahoma is moving forward after lawmakers reached an agreement with the Oklahoma City Thunder and a majority of tribal gaming partners.
Oklahoma Senator Bill Coleman and Oklahoma Representative Ken Luttrell say they have filed new language for House Bill 1047 and expect a Senate vote this week.
“This is a big day for Oklahoma,” Coleman said, calling the proposal the result of years of negotiations and saying it would create a legal system to compete with illegal betting markets.
The plan would allow tribes to offer in-person sports betting at casinos and set up a statewide mobile betting system through partnerships with tribal nations.
Supporters say the framework keeps tribal exclusivity in gaming while allowing partnerships with national sportsbook companies.
Under the proposal, tribes would send 8 percent of sports betting revenue to the state. Money from NBA and WNBA bets would go to the Strong Readers Fund for early literacy programs, while other revenue would support higher education, workforce development, tourism, and problem gambling services.
If approved by the Senate, the bill would return to the House for further consideration.
