Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Land Transfer Act of 2025
Summary
The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Land Transfer Act of 2025 aims to transfer approximately 265 acres of federal land in California into trust for the benefit of the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians. This includes revoking Public Land Order 3309 and transferring jurisdiction of the land to the Secretary of the Interior. The land will become part of the Tribe's reservation and be administered accordingly, but it cannot be used for gaming purposes.
Expected Effects
The Act will expand the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians' reservation by placing approximately 265 acres of land into trust. This transfer provides the tribe with greater control over the land and its resources. The prohibition on gaming aims to prevent potential social and economic issues associated with casinos.
Potential Benefits
- Increased tribal sovereignty and self-determination through land control.
- Potential for economic development opportunities, excluding gaming.
- Preservation of cultural heritage sites located on the transferred land.
- Improved resource management by the Tribe.
- Clarification of land ownership and usage rights.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential loss of access to the land for non-tribal members who previously used it for recreational purposes.
- Possible environmental impacts if the land is developed without proper safeguards.
- Administrative costs associated with the land transfer and management.
- Potential for disputes over land boundaries or resource usage.
- Restriction on gaming may limit economic development options for the tribe.
Constitutional Alignment
This Act aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Native American tribes, which has been recognized through various Supreme Court decisions and federal policies. The transfer of land into trust for the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians is consistent with the government's historical and legal obligations. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3, the Indian Commerce Clause, grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with Indian tribes, which implicitly recognizes tribal sovereignty and the government's relationship with tribes.
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).