Bay Mills Land Conveyance Authorization

Summary#

This bill allows the Bay Mills Indian Community of Michigan to transfer, lease, encumber, or otherwise convey any part of the Tribe's interest in real property that is not held in trust by the United States. The Tribe can make these transactions without additional federal authorization or approval. The bill clarifies that it does not allow the Tribe to convey land that is held in trust by the United States for the Tribe's benefit. It also says the United States will not be liable for the terms of, or losses from, transfers or other conveyances made under this law unless the United States is a party to the transaction or is otherwise liable by law. That nonliability rule does not apply when the Tribe transfers land to the United States to be held in trust for the Tribe.

What it means for you#

  • The Bay Mills Tribe may sell, lease, or otherwise transfer its non-trust land without getting more federal approval.
  • Land held in trust for the Tribe remains protected and cannot be transferred under this bill.
  • Private parties or governments dealing with the Tribe should note the bill says the United States is not responsible for losses or contract terms from these transactions, except when the United States is a party or otherwise legally liable.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on federal costs, budgetary effects, or other expenses associated with this bill is included in the provided text.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information on proponents' stated reasons or arguments is included in the provided text or metadata.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information on opponents' stated reasons or arguments is included in the provided text or metadata.