Bills Are Far From Dead
While there was a sense of disappointment over the bills failing to pass before the end of the session, the debate is far from over. Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton shared that the bills could make a return to the floor once the next session begins.
Paxton’s words are far from past bills attempting to legalize sports betting. None have gained much momentum and were discarded at the end of each session. This shows that the two bills still have momentum despite failing to get a Senate vote in 2025.
Will Governor Stitt Change His Tune?
While the House and Senate have provided plenty of support, Governor Kevin Stitt has promised to veto any attempt to legalize a tribal-centric sports betting market. Both bills would do that, leading to fierce opposition from the state’s top lawmaker.
The issue between Stitt and the Tribes stems from a failed gaming compact in 2020. The tribes accused the Governor of trying to turn them against each other using deceptive practices, which led Stitt to oppose their control of the industry. Unfortunately for the governor, the tribes appear close to getting their way.
Public Pressure Continues to Mount
The Oklahoma public has supported legal sports betting, which led to HB 1101 being introduced in 2025. The bill would put the topic on the November 2026 ballot, allowing voters the final say.
Lawmakers opposing past sports betting bills have been able to provide sound reasoning for their actions, but HB 1101 is different. In opposing the bill, lawmakers are taking away residents' right to weigh in on the issue. Residents in conservative areas won’t like that, which could impact how they vote in November.
With the bills now set for review in a midterm election year, it could change how some lawmakers vote on them.