Rhode Island Senate Bill S2238

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

Recognizes the Seaconke Wampanoag tribe as a Native American Indian tribe for the limited purpose of assisting this tribe in establishing eligibility for federal benefits and privileges.

Impact

By enacting this bill, Rhode Island will amend its state laws to include a provision for the recognition of the Seaconke Wampanoag tribe. This inclusion may enhance the tribe's community standing, affording members opportunities to qualify for federal grants and to engage in traditional practices. However, the bill articulates that this recognition does not imply any state compact or rights under the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, making certain distinctions clear regarding the scope of the recognition.

Summary

Bill S2238 seeks to officially recognize the Seaconke Wampanoag tribe as a Native American Indian tribe. This recognition is intended to facilitate the tribe's eligibility for various federal benefits and privileges, which include access to education, job training, housing assistance, and protections for the sale of tribal artwork. The bill emphasizes that the recognition is limited and specifically tailored to help the tribe in these regards without extending beyond that to other legal contexts.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding S2238 could arise from the limited nature of the recognition conferred to the Seaconke Wampanoag tribe. By including explicit limitations, the bill attempts to clarify that it does not acknowledge any claims of ancestral lands or rights to conduct gambling activities. This language may be subject to debate, as some might feel it undermines broader claims for recognition and rights that other tribes seek. Furthermore, stakeholders may scrutinize the implications of recognizing only one tribal entity while possibly excluding others, raising questions about the fairness and representation of Native American groups within the state.