What is the Indian Self-Government Act?
The Indian Self-Government Act is a law enacted by the New York State Legislature in 2019. This law established a framework for the self-governance of Native American communities in New York. The law recognizes the inherent right of tribal governments to self-govern and it creates a mechanism for New York State to enter into intergovernmental agreements, known as the “Memoranda of Understanding” (MOUs), with the tribal nations for the purpose of providing them with the necessary tools to exercise their tribal sovereignty. The law calls for a formal government-to-government relationship between the state and the tribes, and it requires the state to recognize and consult with those tribes in matters of legislation and policy that affect them. It also allows the tribes to enter into agreements with the state on matters such as health care, public safety, economic development, and other social services. Additionally, the law requires the state to consider financially supporting tribal governments and their service programs, providing resources to assist in the development of tribal governments, and providing funds for tribal justice systems. The law also creates a formal process for the annual renewal of the MOUs between the state and the tribes. This law gives Native American communities in New York the power to make their own decisions about how to govern their communities and how to manage their resources, thus ensuring that their interests are represented and respected.
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