The members of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association today responded to the news that the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission has been instructed to delay future compact renewals.
Matthew Morgan, chairman of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, also released a statement Thursday evening.
“This November will mark the 20th anniversary of the state offering through the vote of the people the Class III gaming compacts to tribal governments, which have been an overwhelming success for all parties — the tribes, the state, higher eduction and the horse racing industry,” Morgan said. “We appreciate the work of the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission and its staff. Furthermore, we applaud Chairman Sanders’ leadership and candid remarks on the matter. Frankly, the actions of the governor’s office on gaming matters continue to be troubling and not in line with letter or spirit of the State-Tribal Gaming Act and our compacts. As we continue to monitor the situation, our OIGA members remain committed to meet their legal obligations under the law, work in good faith with our partners, and work to make our state a successful place to live, work and visit.”