OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Senate rejected a sports betting legalization proposal on Wednesday, April 22, with a vote of 27-21.
Earlier this week, lawmakers announced an agreement involving state leaders, tribal entities, and the National Basketball Association to allow both in-casino sports betting and online wagering through mobile apps.
However, the proposal ultimately failed because some lawmakers are concerned about increased gambling addiction.
The state would have received 8% of sports betting revenue, with additional funds for childhood literacy programs and mental health and substance abuse services. The measure sought to limit sports betting to tribal operators, effectively making platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket illegal in Oklahoma.
Currently, 38 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized sports betting.
