Policy Options

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for uplifting Tribal sovereignty, the following options may be relevant to consider with Tribal partners.

• Respect Jurisdiction: Washington H.B.2233 allows Tribal governments to end state interference in Tribal court jurisdiction. Many states still claim jurisdiction over Tribal citizens and lands set by now-denounced efforts to renege on treaties and forcibly assimilate Tribes.
• Require Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC): Washington S.B.5373 would reinforce existing requirements to consult with Tribes and direct state agencies to seek FPIC.
• Establish Intergovernmental Assemblies: Maine L.D.2115 would create  an assembly of state and Tribal representatives to develop and maintain government-to-government relationships.
• Give Land Back:  Returning land to Tribal control to improves biodiversity, increases land access for all, and restores social and decision-making powers to Tribal nations. California A.B.408 would encourage state-Tribal co-management and land return.
• Honor Indigenous Land Access: Treaty rights often include free movement and subsistence on land. Minnesota improved treaty compliance with free state parks access for Tribal citizens, also proposed in Nevada A.B.84, Arizona A.B.2237, Maine L.D.25 and South Dakota H.B.1142.