Exempts all Narragansett Indian Tribe members owning real estate, whether privately, commercially, in nonprofit corporations or in land trusts, from all real estate taxes imposed by the state or any municipality.
Impact
The enactment of H7761 will have a profound impact on tax policies within Rhode Island regarding tribal members. By exempting both privately owned and tribally owned commercial real estate from real estate taxes, the bill not only aims to empower Narragansett Tribal members economically but also enhances their sovereignty while aligning with their recognition as a sovereign entity. Furthermore, tax exemptions extend to tribal member-led nonprofit organizations and land trusts, adding another layer of benefit and promoting economic activity among tribal affiliations.
Summary
House Bill H7761, known as the Narragansett Tribal Sovereignty Act, aims to provide significant tax exemptions for the Narragansett Indian Tribe members who own various forms of real estate in Rhode Island. The bill declares the Narragansett Indian Tribe as the sole federally recognized tribe in the state and specifically acknowledges its governmental structure. Through this new legislation, all members of the tribe will enjoy exemptions from real estate taxes imposed by both the state and local municipalities, making it a substantial form of financial relief for tribal members and their associated businesses and organizations.
Contention
While H7761 is likely to bring significant benefits to the Narragansett Indian Tribe, it may also face contention regarding equity in taxation. Critics may argue that providing such extensive tax exemptions to a specific group could lead to disparities in the tax burden on non-tribal residents and businesses. There may also be concerns about the broader implications for local governments that rely on property taxes for funding essential services. Thus, the bill could spark discussions around tribal sovereignty versus municipal governance and funding for public services within the state.
House Resolution Posthumously Honoring The Legacy And Life Of Ellison Myers "tarzan" Brown, A Native American Narragansett Indian Who Twice Won The Boston Marathon
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay (creates A 13 Member Joint Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay, And Who Would Report Back To The General Assembly By May 31, 2024, And Expire On June 30, 2024.)
Repeals sections of the Narragansett Indian Land Management Corporation Act and acknowledges the Narragansett Indian Tribe as the sole aboriginal people sovereign to the territory of what is now known as Rhode Island.