Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act
Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act
Plain Language Summary
# Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would transfer legal authority from federal courts to Utah state courts for certain civil lawsuits involving the Shivwits Band of Paiutes, a Native American tribe in southwestern Utah. It would also allow the tribe to lease its trust lands (property held by the federal government for the tribe's benefit). Currently, disputes arising on tribal lands typically fall under federal or tribal jurisdiction; this bill would shift civil cases to state courts instead. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects the Shivwits Band of Paiutes and anyone (individuals or businesses) involved in civil disputes with the tribe or contracts affecting tribal lands.
This could include disputes over leases, property agreements, or other civil matters. The change would make it easier to resolve contract disputes in state court rather than navigating federal or tribal systems. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Celeste Maloy (R-UT) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives.
CRS Official Summary
Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity ActThis bill confers legal jurisdiction to the State of Utah over certain civil cases involving the Shivwits Band of Paiutes. It also allows the tribe to lease its land held in trust. The tribe is located in southwestern Utah.Specifically, the bill confers jurisdiction to the State of Utah over any civil cause of action (1) to which the Shivwits Band of Paiutes is a party, and (2) that arises on or within Indian lands. Under the bill, Indian lands are lands of the tribe that are (1) held in trust for the benefit of the tribe, or (2) subject to restrictions by the United States against alienation (i.e., sale or transfer).Additionally, the bill specifies that any cause of action arising from any contract or agreement (including a lease) to which the tribe is party or that affects or arises on these Indian lands shall be deemed a civil cause of action. Therefore, this bill allows the tribe and third parties to resolve contract disputes in state court.The bill also authorizes the tribe to lease its land held in trust for a term of up to 99 years.
Latest Action
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 440.