Oklahoma Tribes Generate $23.4B Economy Impact, Support 140K Jobs

In 2023, Oklahoma's 19 tribal nations contributed a record $23.4 billion to the state's economy, marking a nearly $5 billion increase from 2019 and demonstrating their growing economic influence. The tribes directly employed over 55,600 Oklahomans and supported nearly 140,000 jobs statewide, providing more than $7.8 billion in wages and benefits. Tribal gaming and related businesses generated $7.4 billion in revenue, with $208 million in exclusivity fees paid to the state, a 36% rise since 2019, primarily funding public education programs. Beyond gaming, tribes invested $582 million in healthcare services, delivering over 3.5 million patient visits, and contributed a total of $351 million to education through various programs. Experts, including Dr. Kyle Dean of Oklahoma City University, and tribal leaders emphasize that tribal nations are vital economic engines, particularly in rural areas, supporting infrastructure, education, healthcare, and workforce development. They also highlight the tribes' commitment to sustaining their communities and the state's economy, underscoring their enduring and expanding role in Oklahoma's prosperity.