The measure does two things. First, it approves a state-Indian tribe gaming compact. Second, it secures money generated from Indian gaming for education.
The gaming compact is a complex agreement between Oklahoma Indian tribes and the state government. The agreement will end years of litigation about which games can be offered by Indian tribes. Without it, the games are still played, but the state and tribes battle over what games are allowed under federal law through long, expensive lawsuits. During the litigation process, the suspect game is still offered by the tribe. As Choctaw Assistant Chief Mike Bailey said at Wednesday's Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce meeting, "We would rather pay money to education with a gaming compact, than pay attorney's fees."
For Sequoyah County, new life would be breathed into Blue Ribbon Downs, with 250 electronic gaming machines to go with live and with simulcast horse racing. We have seen what we get without it - a track that teeters on insolvency. Other tracks around the country have had wonderful success with this addition. With it, more diverse entertainment such as bull riding and live concerts would be regular events. A portion of the wagering would be paid for larger purses.
A No vote will not limit gaming. A No vote will not stop new Indian casinos from being built. A No vote will not help public education.
If you want to slow down or stop gambling in Oklahoma by a federally recognized indian tribe, either ban every type of gambling in Oklahoma or ask Congress and the President of the United States to enact legislation that bans gambling everywhere, because that is what it would take. 712 is not about whether we should have gambling, that decision was made years ago by President Regan and the 1988 Congress, 712 is about who shares in revenues generated by gambling.
A Yes vote will give Blue Ribbon Downs a bright future. A Yes vote will stop litigation between the state and tribes over gaming. A Yes vote will give the state a say in what games are played in Oklahoma. A Yes vote will start generating more revenue for public education.
We will vote Yes on state question 712.
