UKB Signs Oklahoma Gaming Compact, Eyes Return to Tribal Gaming Market
UKB Signs Oklahoma Gaming Compact, Eyes Return to Tribal Gaming Market
- UKB signs Model Tribal Gaming Compact with Oklahoma state
- UKB’s previous casino operation was shut down in 2013 due to legal issues
- Cherokee Nation remains opposed
After a lengthy closure of twelve years, the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) is on the verge of re-entering tribal gaming. The UKB’s original casino, the Keetoowah Cherokee Casino in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was closed in 2013 due to legal concerns.
The UKB announced that it signed a Model Tribal Gaming Compact with the state of Oklahoma, following the federal approval of its updated gaming code. This compact is currently pending final approval from the Department of the Interior (DOI), allowing UKB to operate Class III gaming on its trust land. This represents a significant resolution to a longstanding dispute with the Cherokee Nation, which is the largest tribal government in Oklahoma.
Cherokee Spat
Despite both tribes claiming heritage from the historic Cherokee people, tensions have often arisen over territorial sovereignty. The Cherokee Nation has consistently asserted that it has exclusive rights to the lands associated with the Cherokee lineage, leveraging this to challenge the UKB’s past casino operations.
- The Cherokee Nation operates ten casinos across northeastern Oklahoma.
- The UKB’s initial casino commenced operations in 1986, even without trust land, primarily offering Class II gaming.
Legal Histories
In 2013, due to a lawsuit from the Cherokee Nation, along with pressure from federal and state regulators, the UKB’s casino was forced to close. A key point in the dispute was the UKB’s lack of federally recognized trust land, a requisite for tribal gaming under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).
However, progress for the UKB began in 2011 when the DOI accepted a 76-acre parcel of land into trust for the tribe. This decision faced legal challenges from the Cherokee Nation but was eventually upheld by the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2019.
Significant momentum was gained when, in January 2025, the DOI issued a legal opinion endorsing that the UKB is a legitimate successor to the historical Cherokee Nation, reinstating its sovereign status and paving the way for gaming development.
‘Years of Determination’
According to UKB Chief Jeff Wacoche, “This agreement reflects years of determination and marks a significant moment for the Keetoowah people. It’s more than just a business endeavor; it’s about restoring self-determination, creating jobs, and fostering financial prosperity for our communities. We’re laying down the legal and economic foundations for our future.”
The tribe signaled they’re engaged in development planning and will proceed with caution and transparency.
Ongoing Disputes with the Cherokee Nation
Despite the DOI’s supportive opinion, the Cherokee Nation stands firm on its claim of sovereignty over the lands in question. Attorney General Chad Harsha stated,
“The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians lacks jurisdiction over the Cherokee Nation Reservation. Previous attempts by the UKB to operate a casino were illegal and did not comply with federal law.”
Likewise, he emphasized that the UKB’s adjustments to their old gaming laws do not grant them any authority over operations within Cherokee Nation Territories.
Conclusion
The UKB is a prime example of the complex dynamics in tribal gaming and sovereignty interactions in the United States. As they aim to reopen their casino, the UKB navigates legal battles and community sentiments, setting a precedent that could impact future tribal gaming initiatives.
This situation underlines the importance of understanding the legal frameworks and relationships between different tribes in the gaming landscape. As the UKB’s case evolves, it will undoubtedly be a crucial point of interest for those monitoring the progression of tribal gaming regulations across the country.
