What is the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934?

The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 (also known as the Wheeler-Howard Act) was one of the most far-reaching federal statutes ever passed in regards to Native American Law in the United States. The act recognized the rights of Native American tribes to have their own governments, to manage their own affairs, and to determine their own course of development. The act also gave Native American tribes the authority to form tribal constitutions with provisions for corporate charters, the power to enter into contracts with the United States government, and the power to create and manage their own taxation systems. Additionally, the act provided funds for the immediate and long-term economic development of Native American tribes. The Act was passed in 1934 and repealed in 1953, although some of its core principles were retained in the Tribal Self-Governance Act of 1988 and the Indian Reorganization Act Amendments of 1994. The Act has been touted as one of the most significant federal policy changes since 1934, as it empowered Native Americans to create their own form of government and to take control of their own economic and development decisions. The Act has had a tremendous impact on Native American law in New York and the entire United States. It gave Native Americans much greater autonomy in managing their own affairs, and has allowed them to create a more effective and efficient form of government that is responsive to the needs of their own tribal members. Moreover, the Act has provided much needed economic and development assistance to Native Americans, allowing them to take advantage of new opportunities and improve their quality of life.

Related FAQs

What is the tribal consultation process?
How can Native American tribes access US Department of the Interior and US Department of Justice resources?
What is the tribal consultation process?
What is the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act?
What is the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act?
What is the Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Act?
What rights do Native Americans have to vote?
What is the Indian Health Care Improvement Act?
What is the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act?
What is the Native American Tribal Sovereignty Act?

Related Blog Posts

How Native American Law Impacts Tribal Sovereignty - July 31, 2023
Understanding the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act - August 7, 2023
5 Benefits of Tribal Participation in Federal Indian Law - August 14, 2023
What to Consider When Entering Into an Indian Country Jurisdiction - August 21, 2023
How To Draft an Enforceable Tribal Law - August 28, 2023