NIGC Approves Mobile Gaming in Oklahoma’s Chickasaw Reservation

The organization positioned to support the introduction and regulation of gambling enterprises on Native American reservations, the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGC), has granted an iGaming license to Chickasaw Nation – the controlling operator of Chickasaw lands in Oklahoma’s southern territory.

However, the permit to offer mobile gaming solutions comes with two key stipulations. The tribal firm can only target customers within the 1,230 square mile area of Chickasaw reservation and are only approved to facilitate Class II gaming – ‘bingo-style’ verticals which utilize pool betting systems. Nevertheless, given that this footage is home to more than one million residents, the opportunity to secure substantial revenues is considerable.

In alignment with the Indian Gaming Regulation Act, tribal entities have reasonable freedom in establishing gambling pursuits within reservation boundaries. Should further native operators across the state opt to apply for a corresponding iGaming license in their respective regions, Oklahoma’s online gambling marketplace could quickly swell. Indeed, approximately 43% of the ‘Sooner State’ is made up by Indian lands.

Despite the potential progress within digital casino gaming, it seems sports betting legislation is still unlikely to materialise anytime soon. The state’s tribal operators have reached an impasse with Republican governor Kevin Stitt – ironically the U.S’ first Native American In this position – over the level of taxation to be levied on revenues. However, Democrat candidate Joy Hofmeister may assume office in the coming weeks, with a local election scheduled for early November. Given Hofmeister’s campaign has been partially bankrolled by five of Oklahoma’s most influential tribal groups, advocates of legalized sports betting could get the boost they so desperately need.