The ongoing standoff between Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. over the car tag compact highlights significant tensions regarding tribal sovereignty and state law enforcement collaboration.
The current compact allows Cherokee citizens living outside the northeastern Oklahoma reservation to obtain car tags from the tribe.
However, Governor Stitt contends that the Cherokee Nation is not adequately sharing tag information with state authorities, claiming that this has resulted in around $8 million in unpaid fines from Cherokee citizens. Hoskin Jr. has challenged this assertion, demanding evidence to support Stitt’s claims.
The expiration of the compact on December 31 poses a critical issue: without a new agreement, Cherokee citizens holding tribal-issued car tags could be driving illegally.
Hoskin Jr. emphasized the tribe’s right to continue issuing tags and titles, asserting that citizens residing on the reservation can travel freely without legal repercussions.
He pointed out the broader implications of the compact, which not only concerns the tribe but also impacts state revenues designated for roads, bridges, law enforcement, and public education.
Stitt, for his part, insists that resolving the compact is crucial for the protection and interests of Oklahoma, indicating ongoing negotiations to reach a satisfactory resolution before the deadline.
The outcome of this dispute could significantly affect both the Cherokee Nation’s autonomy and the state’s financial resources.