State of Oklahoma, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Sign New Gaming Compacts

Statement

The State of Oklahoma and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) signed on Wednesday a new gaming compact that delivers clarity and certainty for each sovereign party; strengthens compact transparency with clear auditing guidance and with new dispute resolution provisions; and provides for meaningful consideration for the State's fee structure for class III games and table games beginning at 12% for a new gaming location in Logan County.

"One year after beginning gaming compact negotiations, the State has entered into its fourth compact that makes way for Oklahoma tribes to innovate and compete in a new, dynamic gaming market and strengthens State-Tribal relationships," said Gov. Kevin Stitt. "The compact includes a commitment from the State to support the UKB's pursuit of land for its first gaming location. This will enhance the UKB's ability to deliver core government services to its 14,300 citizens while expanding economic development opportunities for all Oklahomans in the region."

"It is both an honor and privilege to be announcing the signing of this economic venture between the great State of Oklahoma and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians," said UKB Chief Joe Bunch. "We thank Governor Kevin Stitt and his administration for this monumental day and for their leadership efforts in this compact. It is a grand day for Keetoowahs and Native American tribes all over the country. It is a day when one of their own partnered with Oklahoma in building a stronger economy through the avenues of retail, food and beverage, hotel, hospitality and casino operations, all by a signing a Class III gaming compact with the state. This compact also presents an opportunity for the UKB to move forward and begin increasing health, education and job opportunities for our tribal members and elders, as well as our surrounding communities. After all, we know if our communities are doing well, the state is also doing well. Thank you and God bless the UKB and the State of Oklahoma."

"This is a monumental day for Keetoowahs. I wanted to thank Governor Stitt and his council that's worked to put this compact together with our Attorney General Klint Cowan and our council," said UKB Assistant Chief Jammie Thompson. "We're trying to create a win-win situation for all Oklahomans and certainly for our tribal members. We're looking forward to a long relationship with the state that benefits not only our tribe, but our citizens of the great state of Oklahoma."

The Logan County location will require an additional Section 20 application to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).

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