To authorize, ratify, and confirm the Agreement of Settlement and Compromise to Resolve the Akwesasne Mohawk Land Claim in the State of New York, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 2916 authorizes, ratifies, and confirms the Agreement of Settlement and Compromise to Resolve the Akwesasne Mohawk Land Claim in New York State. The bill involves the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, the State of New York, several counties and towns, and the New York Power Authority.
It addresses land claims and transfers related to specific legal cases. The bill also defines certain lands owned by the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe within Settlement Acquisition Areas as Indian Country.
Expected Effects
This bill will settle long-standing land claims, providing clarity and legal certainty for all parties involved. It will formally recognize the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe's land ownership within specified areas.
This recognition could lead to enhanced tribal governance and resource management. The settlement aims to resolve disputes and foster better relationships between the tribe, state, and local governments.
Potential Benefits
- Resolves long-standing land disputes, providing legal certainty.
- Recognizes and confirms the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe's land ownership.
- May improve relationships between the tribe, state, and local governments.
- Could lead to enhanced tribal governance and resource management.
- Potentially stimulates economic development within the tribal lands.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for disputes over the interpretation of the Settlement Agreement.
- Possible challenges in implementing land transfers and easements.
- Concerns from local communities regarding changes in land use or jurisdiction.
- Risk of unforeseen environmental impacts from development on tribal lands.
- Potential for similar claims from other tribes, creating further legal and administrative burdens.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the federal government's treaty obligations and its responsibility to Native American tribes, as recognized in various Supreme Court decisions. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with Indian tribes.
The bill also respects the principle of federalism by involving state and local governments in the settlement agreement. It does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).