Bill No. 585, introduced by Senator Coleman and Representative Luttrell, amends existing laws regarding state-tribal gaming in Oklahoma by updating terminology and clarifying the legal framework for Indian tribes to conduct authorized gaming. The bill changes "model tribal-state compact" to "Model Tribal Gaming Compact" and specifies that if at least four tribes enter into this compact and receive approval from the Secretary of the Interior, the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission will license organization licensees for gaming activities. It also establishes regulations for the number of player terminals based on county populations and outlines the types of gaming machines permitted. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for event wagering on nontribal land, allowing professional sports teams to obtain licenses for such activities, with gross gaming revenues shared with tribal entities.
The bill further details the establishment of a Model Tribal Gaming Compact, defining covered games and the responsibilities of tribal enterprises. It mandates comprehensive record-keeping, audits, and employee training to ensure compliance and accountability. New licensing requirements for covered game employees and vendors are introduced, along with a structured process for handling tort and prize claims. The bill also clarifies that tribes cannot conduct event pools on another tribe's land and allows for Internet event pools to operate on nontribal lands, with specific regulations for compliance and revenue sharing. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and does not authorize any additional forms of gaming beyond those specified.