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Bill

HR 412

To authorize the Bay Mills Indian Community of the State of Michigan to convey land and interests in land owned by the Tribe.

119th Congress Introduced by Jack Bergman and 1 co-sponsor

HR 412 empowers the Bay Mills Indian Community to manage and transfer non-trust land, boosting their economic opportunities while protecting the U.S. from liability.

Subcommittee Hearings Held
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Bill Summary · HR 412

Summary of HR 412: Bay Mills Indian Community Land Conveyance Authorization

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 412
Title: To authorize the Bay Mills Indian Community of the State of Michigan to convey land and interests in land owned by the Tribe.
Introduced: January 15, 2025
Current Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 412 is to provide the Bay Mills Indian Community in Michigan with the authority to manage its land holdings more flexibly. This bill aims to facilitate the Tribe's ability to transfer, lease, or encumber real property that is not held in trust by the United States, thereby enhancing their economic opportunities and land management capabilities.

Key Provisions

  1. Land Transfer Authority:

    • The Bay Mills Indian Community may transfer, lease, encumber, or convey any part of its interest in real property that is not held in trust by the United States without needing further authorization or approval.

  2. Exclusions:

    • The bill explicitly states that it does not authorize the Tribe to transfer or convey any lands held in trust by the United States for the Tribe's benefit.

  3. Liability Protection:

    • The United States will not be liable for any losses or terms resulting from transactions made under this Act, unless the U.S. is a party to the transaction or liable under other laws. This provision is designed to protect the federal government from claims related to these land transactions.

Affected Parties

  • Bay Mills Indian Community: The primary beneficiary of this legislation, allowing for greater autonomy in managing their land.
  • United States Government: The bill clarifies the federal government's liability concerning land transactions, potentially reducing legal risks associated with tribal land management.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 15, 2025: Bill introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
  • January 29, 2025: Referred to the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs.
  • February 5, 2025: Subcommittee hearings held to discuss the bill.

Conclusion

HR 412 represents a significant step towards empowering the Bay Mills Indian Community by granting them greater control over their land assets. By streamlining the process for land transactions and clarifying liability issues, the bill aims to enhance the Tribe's economic development and self-determination. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final outcome of this initiative.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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