Indian Buffalo Management Act
Summary
The Indian Buffalo Management Act aims to assist Tribal governments in managing buffalo and their habitat, and to reestablish buffalo populations on Indian land. It directs the Secretary of the Interior to work with Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations to promote buffalo management and restoration. The Act authorizes contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants to support these efforts, while also ensuring the protection of culturally sensitive information.
Expected Effects
The Act would likely lead to increased buffalo populations on Indian land, enhancing cultural, spiritual, and subsistence resources for Indian Tribes. It could also stimulate economic development through buffalo-related activities. The Act's authority would sunset after seven years.
Potential Benefits
- Supports Tribal sovereignty and self-determination in managing natural resources.
- Promotes cultural and spiritual revitalization for Indian Tribes through buffalo restoration.
- Provides economic opportunities through buffalo-related commercial activities.
- Enhances food security and access to traditional diets for Tribal communities.
- Fulfills the government-to-government relationship between the United States and Tribal governments.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for conflicts with existing federal or state laws regarding diseased or escaped buffalo.
- Limited duration due to the seven-year sunset clause.
- Dependence on the Secretary of the Interior's discretion in providing contracts, agreements, and grants.
- Possible administrative burden for Tribal governments in applying for and managing grants and agreements.
- Risk of unintended ecological consequences if buffalo restoration is not carefully managed.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the federal government's trust responsibility to Indian Tribes, which has been recognized by the Supreme Court. While the Constitution does not explicitly mention Indian affairs, Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 (the Indian Commerce Clause) grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with Indian Tribes. This Act falls within the scope of that power. The Act also respects Tribal sovereignty, which is consistent with the principles of federalism.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).