The Journal Record
By Phil G. Busey Sr.
Posted: 09:21 PM Tuesday, August 24, 2010
The Journal Record wrote that while speaking at the Indian Country Business Summit at the University of Oklahoma, both Secretary of Commerce and Tourism Natalie Shirley and Lt. Gov. Jari Askins echoed the importance of tribal governments to Oklahoma. This is an understatement of a huge advantage to business and economic development that many in state government have overlooked for too long. Tribal governments are collectively the third-largest employer in the state. The 39 sovereign Indian nations contribute more than $15 billion to Oklahoma’s economy. This is a fraction of what it can grow to.
Much of the rapid growth among Oklahoma’s largest tribes has occurred since 1988, from revenues finally made legal under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. This federal legislation was the beginning of the expanding Indian gaming industry in the U.S. that had more than $26 billion in revenues in 2009.
The positive economic impact of tribal governments cannot be disputed. As revenues roll in, tribes become sources for additional educational, health care, infrastructure and business opportunities. Tribes can be a large investment option for additional capital to fund business and economic expansion. The critical step that will fall upon the next governor is to actively reach out to tribal leaders to form an economic state and tribal council to discuss, explore and develop future business opportunities and programs for Oklahoma. Tribal governments have unique incentives provided under federal regulation that could assist Oklahoma businesses... FULL ARTICLE
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Tue, August 24, 2010
by Crystal Drwenski