Oklahoma and Cherokee Nation officials have finally put an end to a lengthy dispute by reaching an agreement to renew their motor vehicle tag compact for a significant 10-year period. This development comes after months of tense negotiations and differing viewpoints between the two parties.

Resolving Disputes and Securing Government-to-Government Agreements

Background and Dispute

For months, Gov. Kevin Stitt had been insistent on making major changes to the compact, which was set to expire on December 31. His concerns mainly revolved around the state's access to drivers' personal information and unpaid tolls. On the other hand, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. criticized some of Stitt's demands and stated that the tribe would halt its cooperation with the state if an agreement couldn't be reached. This led to a drawn-out dispute that had the potential to cause significant disruptions.

However, both Stitt and Hoskin expressed their support for the terms of the agreement announced on Tuesday. Hoskin emphasized in a statement that the new compact is a government-to-government agreement that safeguards the rights of their citizens and enables the continued provision of essential funding for public schools, roads, and law enforcement agencies. He expressed gratitude for the good faith negotiations from their Oklahoma partners and the support of the Cherokee people in this fundamental exercise of self-determination and government interests.

Governor's Perspective

The governor also highlighted the importance of the agreement. He said that he appreciated the Cherokee Nation's efforts to work out a deal that would allow the state to collect tolls from drivers with Cherokee plates who do not have PikePass. Stitt emphasized that as Oklahomans, they all drive on the same roads and bridges, and it is crucial that they all contribute to making the state a top ten state.

This agreement not only addresses the toll collection issue but also provides a framework for Cherokee Nation citizens living outside of the tribe's jurisdiction to obtain Cherokee plates. They can do so by using state tag offices or Cherokee Nation tag offices, which simplifies the process for them.

Agreement Details

The agreement stipulates that the Cherokee Nation will share driver information for PlatePay billing and will continue to share this information with law enforcement. In addition, the tribal nation has agreed to pay Oklahoma $2 million over three years to cover unpaid tolls. In exchange, the state has agreed to waive any additional fees incurred by drivers with Cherokee plates through November 30.

This comprehensive agreement addresses multiple aspects and ensures a smooth functioning of the motor vehicle tag system while maintaining the rights and interests of both parties.

Previous Disputes and Resolutions

The agreement follows a series of disputes over data concerns. Earlier this year, Stitt incorrectly claimed that police only had reliable information about drivers with Chickasaw Nation and Choctaw Nation plates. He also blamed the Cherokee Nation and other tribal nations for Oklahoma's inability to collect cashless tolls from drivers with their plates. A bill that aimed to allow law enforcement officials to share tribal plate data with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority failed to advance due to concerns from tribal leaders.

Hoskin called the situation a "problem of the state's own creation," stating that Oklahoma officials failed to ensure the accessibility of tribal tag data before powering on plate pay systems across the state. The controversy over car tag compacts began in 2023 when they were set to expire along with other state-tribal deals related to cigarette taxes collected on tribal lands. Lawmakers extended all the agreements for one year over Stitt's objections, and the new deadline for renewing all the deals is December 31.

Current and Future Implications

While Stitt has now agreed to renew the state's three car tag compacts with tribal nations, it remains unclear how many state-tribal tobacco tax agreements may be on the verge of expiring within weeks. Stitt and the elected leaders of at least 11 tribal nations have signed long-term tobacco tax agreements since the start of the year, and others are in negotiation. The exact number of tribes in negotiation is unclear, but at least eight compacts appear to be on track to expire by December 31 if not renewed.

This agreement serves as a significant step forward in resolving disputes and establishing stronger partnerships between Oklahoma and the Cherokee Nation. It sets a precedent for future negotiations and collaborations, ensuring the smooth operation of various government services and the well-being of both communities.