More Gambling OK? Legislators reach agreement with Thunder, tribes on Sports Betting

Why is it that some of the greatest social ills chronically plaguing Oklahoma are advanced under the guise of "helping the children" through some sort of rosy promise of "more money for education"? Here's something I wrote back in 2025 when the last version of Coleman and Luttrell's bill passed the State House (in 2023, like true politicians, they lamented missing out on all that juicy tax revenue this would generate):

Terrible idea. Of all the things to be on a multi-year crusade about, State Rep. Ken Luttrell and State Sen. Bill Coleman have been on one to expand gambling in Oklahoma. Society - and sports at all levels - will reap a negative harvest from this in years to come. Shame on every legislator who voted for this.

Read the amendment. It includes a veritable slush fund specifically for the OKC Thunder, I mean, "a professional sports team that is part of the National Basketball Association and located in a county in this state with a population exceeding six hundred thousand (600,000)" of up to $7,000,000 per year - ostensibly "for the purposes of economic development, job training, community improvement, regional tourism assistance or new tourism attraction creation, including capital improvements or debt service support in connection therewith, tourism marketing separate from or in connection with an agency of this state, supplemental educational or vocational programs in science, technology, engineering, arts, or mathematics, public safety, other projects in this state in the public interest," – but get the very next words – "or other team business operations."  

Coleman, Luttrell Reach Agreement with OKC Thunder, Majority of Tribes on Sports Betting

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Bill Coleman and Rep. Ken Luttrell announced today that they will move forward with a new version of a bill to legalize sports betting after securing support from key stakeholders.

After years of negotiations, the Ponca City Republicans said this new legislation that supports public education and economic growth has support from the Oklahoma City Thunder, a supermajority of the tribes that are members of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association and the state’s leading public universities.

Coleman filed new bill language today through an amendment to House Bill 1047. He said he expects the full Senate will vote on the measure this week.

Small: OSSAA abuses merit lawmakers’ response

OSSAA abuses merit lawmakers’ response

By Jonathan Small

Oklahoma law allows “open transfer,” meaning any student in Oklahoma can attend any public school with room. But the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) too often prevents transfer students from playing sports, effectively undermining the open-transfer law. OSSAA board members, who are mostly school superintendents, often see “recruiting” whenever a competitor school might get transfers.

The OSSAA recently barred four teenage boys from playing basketball for Glencoe, alleging recruitment because the boys have long known new Glencoe basketball coach Garrett Schubert and his son, Maddox.

The OSSAA’s Board of Directors voted 12–0 to declare the four boys ineligible. The boys’ families filed a lawsuit on Aug. 14.

Legislature passes bill to improve law enforcement coordination ahead of 2028 Olympics

Bill Expanding Law Enforcement Authority for Counties Ahead of Olympics Heads to Governor

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 1st) — A bill carried by Rep. Robert Manger, R-Oklahoma City, aimed at improving law enforcement coordination ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics has passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives unanimously and now heads to the governor’s desk.

Senate Bill 523 authorizes sheriffs, deputy sheriffs and reserve deputy sheriffs to exercise the same powers and duties in counties outside their home jurisdiction when officially assigned. Under the measure, liability for any conduct remains with the county of original jurisdiction.

Deevers celebrates Oklahoma City's selection for 2028 Olympic softball, canoe slalom events

Deevers Celebrates with Oklahoma City for Securing of 2028 Olympic Hosting Roles

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 28th) - Senator Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, proudly joined many Oklahomans in celebrating the prestigious selection of Oklahoma City as host for Canoe Slalom and Women’s Softball during the 2028 Olympic Games. 

“This extraordinary achievement stands as a testament to the state’s top-tier sports facilities, robust infrastructure, and spirit of collaboration. Oklahoma has always been home to world-class talent and unwavering community pride,” Deevers said. “Being chosen to host events at Devon Park and Riversport Rapids in the Boathouse District will display our remarkable sports culture on the international stage. We look forward to extending a warm welcome to athletes, officials, and visitors from every corner of the globe.”

House passes bills to legalize sports betting - with tiny bandaid of addiction funding

Terrible idea. Of all the things to be on a multi-year crusade about, State Rep. Ken Luttrell and State Sen. Bill Coleman have been on one to expand gambling in Oklahoma. Society - and sports at all levels - will reap a negative harvest from this in years to come. Shame on every legislator who voted for this.

House Passes Bills for Sports Betting and Gaming Compact Supplements

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 27th) – The Oklahoma House of Representatives passed two significant bills aimed at legalizing sports betting and enhancing the state's gaming compact with tribal partners.

House Bill 1047, authored by Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City, authorizes sports betting in Oklahoma. The bill also maintains the existing funding for the treatment of compulsive gambling, ensuring the monthly allocation to the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services remains at $20,833. Additionally, the bill outlines provisions for tribes interested in entering into gaming compact supplements to accept the state's offer for sports betting.

House Bill 1101, also authored by Luttrell, establishes a voter referendum for the approval of sports wagering in the state. It mirrors many of the provisions in HB1047 and provides a path for tribes to adopt the state’s gaming compact supplements.

State Sen. Thompson files bill to include school supplies, athletic gear in tax-free weekend

Thompson files bill to include school supplies, athletic gear in tax-free weekend

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, filed legislation on Monday to include school supplies and athletic equipment among the items exempted from sales taxes during Oklahoma’s tax-free weekend in August.

Senate Bill 231 would exempt common school supplies — such as backpacks, binders, pens, pencils, markers and notebooks — from state and local sales taxes during the state’s annual sales tax holiday, the first weekend in August. Recreational equipment, including cleats, gloves, mouthguards, shoulder pads and goggles, would also be tax-exempt under this bill.

State Rep. Rick West bill would require OSSAA to accept cash at games

Rick West Bill Would Require OSSAA to Accept Cash at Games

OKLAHOMA CITY (Jan. 9th) – Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener, recently filed legislation that would require an organization such as the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) to accept cash for admittance to sporting events or any other activity where payment is required.

Sens. Coleman, Murdock hopeful Stitt's support of sports betting will move issue next session

Sen. Coleman responds to governor’s sports betting plan

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City, released the following statement Friday after the governor announced a plan to advance sports betting in Oklahoma. Coleman is the Senate principal author of House Bill 1027, along with Rep. Ken Luttrell, to legalize sports betting in the state. The bill was introduced during the 2023 legislative session where it received House approval and will be available for further consideration by the Senate when session convenes in February.

“I’m somewhat surprised by the governor’s unexpected sports betting proposal given I already have an active piece of legislation, House Bill 1027, in the Senate to legalize sports betting and he has never reached out to share his support of the idea or to offer any other input on this important economic development issue. It’s frustrating that he didn’t feel it necessary to collaborate with those of us who have been diligently working on this major issue for over a year now, but I’m hopeful that will change in the coming weeks.

“While the governor’s plan might be a starting point, I’ll be interested to see if he has contacted or worked with our tribal partners to get their input. A lack of coordination between the executive branch and tribal leadership was the main reason our bill stalled this session. When dealing with the tribes, compacting, and the many nuances with exclusivity and future gaming negotiations, it’s imperative that Governor Stitt work in good faith with our tribal partners. I’m not sure he’ll garner much support given his plan, among other things, asks the tribes to give up their online share of sports gaming, which nationally accounts for 95% of total revenues.

“However, I am optimistic that Gov. Stitt is showing interest in bringing sports betting to Oklahoma. As I’ve said before, this would be an incredible economic boon for us and one that 37 other states have already taken advantage of. We need to seize this opportunity to create jobs and millions in new revenue. With more tribal casinos than any other state and three successful horse tracks, Oklahoma is primed for sports betting.

“I urge the governor to work with me, my House author Rep. Luttrell, and others who have been working on this issue, as well as the tribal nations because without their support, there will be no change. The governor’s plan needs some work but that’s what the legislative process is about – coordination, collaboration, and consensus – and I’m looking forward to it.”

Murdock supports governor’s sports betting plan

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt, issued the following statement in support of Governor Stitt’s plan to bring sports betting to Oklahoma, which was announced on November 2.

“I think that this is a fantastic opportunity to not only welcome new economic, tourism, and recreational opportunities to Oklahoma but also address the discrimination faced by Oklahomans who enjoy attending sporting events such as the Kentucky Derby or the Breeders Cup. It is unfair that they are not allowed to place bets online solely because they live in Oklahoma. The Governor's plan not only helps increase revenue coming into the state but also provides opportunities to every single Oklahoman.

“Oklahoma sports have always garnered high levels of enthusiasm, and embracing sports betting is an obvious move for our state and districts.”

The plan includes opportunities for tax revenue for the state, as well as guidelines for transparency and accountability in support of consumer protection.

For a fact sheet detailing sports betting in Oklahoma, click here.

Gov. Stitt announces plan to bring sports betting to Oklahoma

If there's just one thing Oklahoma needs more of besides "medical" marijuana dispensaries, it's definitely more gambling... 🙄

GOVERNOR STITT ANNOUNCES PLAN TO BRING SPORTS BETTING TO OKLAHOMA

OKLAHOMA CITY (November 2, 2023) - Today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced his plan to make sports betting a reality in Oklahoma. The Governor’s plan, which would allow Oklahomans to place in-person bets at gaming sites operated by federally recognized tribes, would protect tribal investments in brick-and-mortar facilities. The plan would also allow Oklahomans to place bets on their mobile devices on a sportsbook licensed by the state. Additionally, the plan protects Oklahoma’s student-athletes by prohibiting prop betting and bets on individual student-athlete performance.

OCPA column: OU gets national attention — the wrong kind

OU gets national attention—the wrong kind

By Jonathan Small

The University of Oklahoma recently made national news—for the wrong reasons.

An investigation by The Wall Street Journal found that some of the United States’ best-known public universities “have been on an unfettered spending spree” with the bill “passed” on to students—and OU was identified as one of the worst offenders.

Between 2002 and 2022, the Journal found enrollment at OU increased 15 percent, but tuition increased by 36 percent even after adjusting for inflation. And, once student fees were included, the combined rate of growth was even more dramatic.

Senate Pro Tem Treat Comments on Conclusion of the 2023 Regular Session

Senate Pro Tem Treat Comments on Conclusion of the 2023 Regular Session

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 26th) – Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, today commented on the conclusion of today’s regular session that began in February.

The pro tem said the Senate Republican caucus was more united than ever before and built momentum going into the summer, which he hopes to carry into next year.

Legislative authors lament sports betting bill failing to advance this session

After a bill that would have legalized sports betting in Oklahoma failed to advance through a State Senate committee before a crucial legislative deadline, the authors of the measure are lamenting the fact that Oklahoma is "missing out" on all that juicy tax revenue that would have resulted from passage of the bill.

Drooling over more tax revenue, House passes bill to legalize sports betting

As I've said before (sarcastically, of course)... if there's just one thing Oklahoma needs more of, it's gambling. 🙄

House Approves Sports Betting

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 21st) – The Oklahoma House of Representatives gave the stamp of approval Tuesday to legislation to legalize sports betting and potentially bring in over $9 million a year to the state budget.

LtGov Pinnell announces Oklahoma Golf Trail Commission appointees

LT. GOVERNOR PINNELL ANNOUNCES OKLAHOMA GOLF TRAIL COMMITTEE APPOINTEES

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell announced today the appointees for the Oklahoma Golf Trail Commission, which is tasked with developing a list of golf courses to be designated as the Oklahoma Golf Trail. The Lt. Governor will serve on the commission along with Gary Bridwell, Lou Dechert, Sheila Dills, Jared Gallagher, Steve Gelnar, Charlie Hannema, David Jones, Michael Love, and Ken MacLeod. 

Legislators think sports betting would be "economic boon" for state (and fill the tax coffers, of course)

When legislators say that even more gambling in Oklahoma would be "an economic boom for the state", they're actually drooling over the prospect of collecting more taxes -- who cares about the social detriment it brings.

Coleman signs on to author sports betting bill in Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Bill Coleman announced Wednesday that he will be signing on as the Senate author of fellow Ponca City Republican Rep. Ken Luttrell’s House Bill 1027 to legalize sports betting in Oklahoma. An avid sports enthusiast, Coleman said the change would be an economic boon for the state and he hopes the Legislature seizes the opportunity before it’s too late.

“Oklahomans love their sports – we have the lottery, three horse tracks, and the most tribal casinos of any state. Sports betting through our tribal partners would simply provide another opportunity for our state’s sports fanatics to have some fun while creating thousands of new jobs and millions in revenue to further boost our economy,” Coleman said. “With the popularity of sports betting exploding around the nation, I hope our legislative colleagues realize the tremendous fiscal impact this will have on our state and approve sports betting this session.”

HB 1027 would create a new compact that tribes could decide whether to enter into, allowing both mobile and in-person sports betting in the state. A tribe that agreed to the compact would give 4% of the first $5 million in sports betting annual gross revenue to the state, 5% of the following $5 million of adjusted gross revenue, and finally 6% of all future adjusted gross revenue. Any agreement would need to be submitted to the U.S. Department of the Interior for approval.

Thirty-five of Oklahoma’s 38 federally recognized tribes have signed gaming compacts with the state, and there are 143 tribal casinos and gaming centers statewide that could possibly offer sports betting. Currently, sports betting is already legal in 36 other states, including Kansas where Coleman lives near. 

“I recently drove over an hour to Kansas to place some sports bets and there were numerous other Oklahoma tags in the parking lot,” Coleman said. “It’s estimated that approving sports betting could generate $240 million in revenue and create more than 3,000 jobs. We’re missing a huge opportunity.”

Bob Stoops to speak at OCPAC dinner about Football, Faith, and the founding of the NFL

Legendary OU football coach Bob Stoops will be joining former Enid pastor Wade Burleson (a current candidate in the 3rd Congressional District) the Oklahoma Conservative Political Action Committee (OCPAC) for a "dinner and conversation about Football, Faith, and the Foundations of the National Football League". The dinner will be held on Tuesday, April 19th, in Oklahoma City. Tickets may be purchased here ($10 for general admission, $25 for admission+meal).

Gov. Stitt signs "Save Women's Sport Act" into law

GOVERNOR STITT SIGNS “SAVE WOMEN’S SPORTS ACT” INTO LAW

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 30, 2022) – Governor Kevin Stitt signed SB2, the Save Women’s Sports Act, into law today. Watch the full bill signing ceremony below: 

State Senate approves bills affirming biological sex at birth, protecting women's sports

Senate supports science with measures affirming biological sex at birth and its importance in women’s sports

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate gave approval to a pair of measures Thursday affirming biological sex at birth and placing importance on this designation for female student athletes across the state. Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, is the author of both measures.

Senate Bill 1100 would require the biological sex designation on Oklahoma birth certificates to be listed as either male or female, outlawing the use of “X” or any other symbol to represent a nonbinary designation.

“This measure is a direct response to our state’s health department adding nonbinary as an option on birth certificates,” Bergstrom said. “Like the vast majority of Oklahomans, I found this move to be a slap in the face of science. How has our society sunk so low that it is seriously an argument if someone is a boy or a girl? Biological sex is very clear, and our vital state records must reflect this.”

The Senate also passed Senate Bill 2, also known as the Save Women’s Sports Act, which would prohibit anyone of the male sex from playing on athletic teams designated for females, women, or girls.

In his debate, Bergstrom shared that he is passionate about this issue because of his daughters, granddaughters and great-granddaughters who have and will compete in women’s sports.

“We must protect our female students across this state from losing out on educational opportunities and scholarships because they are competing against men identifying as women,” Bergstrom said. “How is it fair for our children – our daughters, granddaughters, nieces and cousins – to compete against someone who has a very distinct biological advantage over them? The bottom line is it isn’t, and we must address this issue now and protect our female students from men infiltrating women’s sports programs.”

The measure comes on the heels of transgender athlete Lia Thomas’ dominating performance in the NCAA women’s swimming championships earlier this month. Previously known as Will Thomas, the swimmer had the benefit of higher testosterone levels, enhanced lung capacity, and larger hands and feet, lending to increased strength and a distinct advantage against biological females in the competition.

“It’s sad we even have to pass legislation designating that there is a difference between males and females, and that men have an advantage when competing against women,” said Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, co-author of the measure. “But I’m here to support our women and the future of women’s sports.”

SB 2 passed with bipartisan support on a 37-7 vote and is also co-authored by Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow; Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman; Sen. Marty Quinn, R-Claremore; Sen. Joe Newhouse, R-Tulsa; Sen. Roland Pederson, R-Burlington; Sen. Jake Merrick, R-Yukon; Sen. Blake Stephens, R-Tahlequah; Sen. Cody Rogers, R-Tulsa; Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee; Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain; Sen. George Burns, R-Pollard; Sen. Zack Taylor, R-Seminole; Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt; Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant; and Sen. Darrell Weaver, R-Moore.

SB 2 now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

Dahm releases statement after passage of Save Women’s Sports Act  

OKLAHOMA CITY – State Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, released the following statement after the passage of Senate Bill 2, also known as the Save Women’s Sports Act, on Thursday. Dahm was a co-author of the measure.

State Rep files bill to add in-person Sports Betting to gaming compacts

Because if there's just one thing Oklahoma needs more of, it's gambling. 🙄

Luttrell Files Sports Betting Bill

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City, announced today that he has filed House Bill 3008, a bill that would add in-person sports betting to the Oklahoma state-tribal gaming compact.

"I have had conversations with our gaming tribes during the interim to gauge their interest on this topic," Luttrell said. "I feel the time is right for Oklahoma to partner with the tribes and ensure a level, competitive gaming playing field with the surrounding states."

According to Luttrell, there are currently 30 states with legal sports betting and another 15 considering it in 2022. He said that Arkansas has legalized it in their casinos and Kansas is currently working on an agreement of their own.

"Illegal sports betting occurs throughout Oklahoma, and figures I obtained from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) show 11 offenses recently with tens of thousands of dollars seized," Luttrell added. "This reflects only a fraction of what actually occurs in our state. The Oxford Economics Group estimates that legal sports betting would generate $240 million in revenue for Oklahoma and create over 3000 direct and indirect jobs. This legislation just makes sense."

"Save Women's Sports Act" passed by Oklahoma House

"Save Women's Sports Act" Passed by Oklahoma House

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 19th, 2021) – The “Save Women’s Sports Act” was today approved by the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin, serves as the House author of the measure which would require certain athletic teams to be designated based on an athletes’ biological sex.

“Senate Bill 2 is legislation that protects opportunities for women and girls in athletics by ensuring they are not forced to compete against biological men playing on women’s sports teams,” said Hasenbeck. “Sports are a fantastic opportunity for our young people to learn the value of hard work and what it means to be part of a team, as well as keep them physically fit. However, the bodies of biological men have a competitive advantage over the bodies of biological women. Science tells us that males are generally bigger, faster, and stronger than females. They have larger hearts and lungs, denser bones, and stronger muscles. This allows them to jump higher, run faster and lift more weights, even after several years under the effects of hormone therapy. Similarly gifted and trained males will always have physical advantages over females—that’s the reason we have women’s sports.”