Researcher: LRH Page 1 3/31/25
OLR Bill Analysis
SB 1027
AN ACT REMOVING THE REQUIREMENT THAT THE STATE
OPPOSE APPLICATIONS BY FEDERALLY RECOGNIZED INDIAN
TRIBES TO CONVERT ANY PARCEL OF FEE INTEREST LAND TO
FEDERAL TRUST STATUS.
SUMMARY
This bill removes a provision in current law that requires the state to
oppose any application by a Native American tribe to convert any parcel
of fee interest land (i.e. land owned with no restrictions) to federal trust
status under federal regulations on Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) land
acquisitions.
Generally, land in trust status is held in trust by the United States on
behalf of an individual Native American or tribe. Among other things,
land held in federal trust status:
1. may qualify for certain BIA programs and services;
2. is not subject to state or local taxes; and
3. cannot be alienated or encumbered (e.g., sold, gifted, or leased)
without the federal secretary of the interior’s approval.
EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2025
COMMITTEE ACTION
Labor and Public Employees Committee
Joint Favorable
Yea 13 Nay 0 (03/13/2025)