The following is a press release from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MVSKOKE RESERVATION — Leaders from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Osage Nation, and Quapaw Nation (the “Nations”) have committed to collaborate and seek positive action from the State of Oklahoma on tobacco tax compacts. To date, the Nations have not been able to reach tobacco tax compacts in negotiations with Governor Stitt. Nation leaders have committed to seeking a resolution to tobacco tax issues through the State Legislature. In doing so, the Nations are guided by the following three principles:
1. First Things First. Nation leaders believe that reaching agreement on tobacco compacts is an important first step to other cooperative discussions with State leaders. Each of these issues should be considered as separate issues with consideration on the merits of each one, not used as a way to strong arm the Nations. Nation leaders are committed to meaningful conversations with the
State regarding the Oklahoma turnpikes that travel through Tribal lands and Nation motor vehicle tag issues, but only after a successful resolution of the tobacco compact.
2. Respect. Nation leaders seek respectful dealings with State leaders to resolve issues that impact Tribal and non-Tribal citizens of Oklahoma. Nation leaders agree to come to the table with State leaders with respect and serious focus on reaching mutually-acceptable outcomes. The Nations must be respected and treated as independent, sovereign governments – each with unique concerns and
responsibilities within their communities. This includes the vital ability of each Nation to support public safety, economic development, and essential services for both tribal citizens and surrounding communities. The Nations look forward to working with the Legislature on a true government-to-government basis to meet these shared objectives.
3. Good Faith. Nation leaders and representatives have spent months in good faith negotiations with the Governor for a tobacco compact. With no resolution, Nation leaders now seek legislation that would accomplish a fair agreement with the State. The Nations’ leadership and legal teams will continue to remain in contact with the State of Oklahoma, committed to reaching a solution that provides long-term clarity and stability to Tribal communities, supports business owners, the people of Oklahoma, and the economic well-being of the entire state.
