Gov. Kevin Stitt told all of the tribes who are part of the gambling compact with the state that he has agreed to extend the pact for eight months while negotiations continues.

On Dec. 19, the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Commission rejected his offer.

The 15-year agreement is set to expire January 1. Under the compact, the tribes have some exclusive rights to run gambling operations within the state.

 “The State of Oklahoma is offering an extension to all current gaming compacts between tribes and the state in order to allow us the necessary time to negotiate,” Stitt wrote in a letter to tribes. “An extension will also alleviate any questions or concerns that lenders, employees, entertainers, vendors, and patrons have concerning whether the Class III gaming activities at the casinos are legal as of January 1, 2020.” 

Once signed, the governor’s office expects a quick and seamless filing with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and publication in the Federal Register.