Oklahoma Tribal Casinos Drive Record Gaming Revenue in 2023

The Oklahoma City and Tulsa regions of Indigenous gaming generated a remarkable $6.8 billion in revenue last year, channeling substantial funds back into tribal coffers, government programs, and charitable organizations. This milestone marks a record-breaking year for gaming revenue among Oklahoma’s tribal nations.

According to a 2023 report from the National Indian Gaming Commission, the Oklahoma City region experienced the second-highest revenue increase among the seven listed areas. This 2.1% uptick translated to over $66 million. Close behind, the Tulsa region witnessed a 2% increase, adding $71 million to its revenue.

Both markets contributed significantly to the total gross revenue of $41.9 billion reported, setting a new benchmark in the Indigenous gaming industry. The Oklahoma City and Tulsa regions alone ed for $6.8 billion, with operations extending into neighboring states. Specifically, the Oklahoma City region includes parts of Texas, while the Tulsa region encomes areas in Kansas.

The annual report from the Oklahoma Gaming Compliance Unit highlighted that tribal gaming exclusivity fees reached over $202 million in 2023, reflecting a 5.6% increase from the previous year. These fees are allocated to the Education Reform Revolving Fund, the General Revenue Fund, and the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

The report also indicated that exclusivity payments from tribal nations with gaming compacts have consistently risen since 2005, with the only exceptions being in 2014 and 2020. Presently, 35 tribal nations in Oklahoma maintain gaming compacts.

Per the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, net revenues from tribal casinos must specific causes, including tribal programs aimed at community welfare, charitable organizations, and local government agencies. This directive ensures that the financial benefits of gaming are reinvested into areas that promote the broader well-being of Indigenous communities.

Overall, Oklahoma’s tribal casinos’ robust performance in 2023 underscores their critical role in the state’s economy and their contributions to essential public services and community programs.

Source: Oklahoma tribal casinos contribute to record year in Indigenous gaming revenue, July 10, 2024.