Indian Affairs proposes new regulations to improve fee-to-trust, gaming compact processes

The Department of the Interior’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs today announced the publication of proposed revisions to two regulations, one regarding the fee-to-trust process and one regarding Class III gaming compacts. The updated regulations will provide clearer and more efficient processes for Tribes that are applying to place land into trust or enter into gaming compacts.

“The Biden-Harris administration promised to make it easier for Tribes to place land into trust, and that’s what we’re doing. Taking land into trust on behalf of Tribes is critical for Tribal sovereignty, self-determination, preservation of history and culture, economic development, well-being of Tribal citizens, and to help right the wrongs of past policy,” said Assistant Secretary Bryan Newland. “The federal government has a treaty and trust responsibility to protect tribal sovereignty and revitalize Tribal communities by strengthening their homelands and economic self-sufficiency through a timely and efficient process for taking land into trust and providing clarity on Class III gaming compact negotiations. We look forward to additional feedback from Tribes as we finalize these amendments.”

The proposed rules reflect input and recommendations provided by Tribes during consultations held earlier this year. The Department will conduct further Tribal consultation before the regulations are finalized.