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Oklahoma tribes criticize emergency tobacco rule


Three tribes in eastern Oklahoma say an emergency tobacco tax ruled signed by Gov. Brad Henry (D) on Friday will hurt Indian businesses.

Henry imposed the rule to stop tribally licensed tobacco stores from selling cigarettes with the cheapest possible tobacco stamps. The practice emerged as tribal licensed stores began selling wholesale to each other.

The rule doesn't apply to smoke shops run directly by tribes. But the Osage Nation plans to sue, Chief Jim Gray said. The Cherokee Nation and the Muscogee Creek Nation also oppose the rule.

Get the Story:
Tribes fault Henry for cigarette tax rule (The Oklahoman 4/8)
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Relevant Links:
Oklahoma Tax Commission - http://www.oktax.state.ok.us

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