The "Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act" defines Indian lands for the Shivwits Band of Paiutes and specifies state and federal jurisdiction over civil causes of action arising on these lands. It also addresses the application of federal law to contracts or agreements affecting the Indian lands and reaffirms the sovereign immunity of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes. Additionally, it amends the leasing authority of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes under existing law. The bill aims to clarify the jurisdictional and legal framework concerning the Shivwits Band of Paiutes' lands and activities, ensuring consistency and clear legal parameters.
Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act
This 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.