What are the legal obligations of states to tribes and Native American resources?

State governments have a legal obligation to recognize and protect the tribal sovereignty of Native American tribes located within their jurisdiction. This includes protecting the rights of Native Americans to self-governance, preserving and protecting Native American cultural resources and sacred sites, and upholding tribal rights to land and resources. Washington state statutes recognize and protect the sovereignty of Native American tribes located within state borders, along with their rights to self-governance and autonomy. Furthermore, Washington law ensures that state agencies must respect tribal authority over their own lands and resources, providing notice and consultation with tribes before taking any action that could affect tribal lands, resources, or interests. The state government also has a legal obligation to preserve Native American cultural resources and sacred sites. Any action taken by the state which could affect these should include consultation with tribes and Native American representatives. Additionally, Washington state laws prohibit the desecration of sacred sites, including burials, artifacts, and cemeteries. Finally, Washington state laws recognize and protect Native American rights to land and resources. This includes enforcing treaties between the state and tribal nations, upholding tribal water rights, and protecting Native American fishing rights. State laws also prohibit discrimination against Native Americans and ensure that resources, including agricultural land, are properly managed and preserved.

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