Sooner State News

On June 29, 2023, Governor Kevin Stitt sent a letter to all tribes whose tobacco compacts are set to expire this year, reiterating his previous call to extend the compacts previously negotiated by Oklahoma's Governor and tribal counterparts.

The letter reads, in part: "It is my sincere hope that this letter paves the way toward an agreement that will benefit all 4 million Oklahomans... I extend this offer in good faith and remain steadfast in my belief that we must find common ground to move our state forward."

The material terms of Governor Stitt's offer are as follows:

• A one year extension through December 31, 2024
• A continued 50/50 apportionment of taxes on tobacco sales within the compact jurisdiction
• Clearly defined compact jurisdiction language to ensure the same boundaries contemplated in the current compacts (i.e. lands owned by the tribe and/or its members which are held in trust by the United States, or which are owned by members of the tribes and are subject to restricted title) are maintained
• Elimination of the unilateral termination provision for purposes of the one-year extension

The letters come after Governor Stitt applauded the State Senate for sustaining his veto of SB 26X, underscoring the state's commitment to negotiating compacts that are beneficial to all parties involved.

Original source can be found here.