U.S. Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) and U.S. Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-UT) on April 29 offered legislation that would affirm Utah state court jurisdiction over civil cases involving the Shivwits Band of Paiutes, a sovereign, federally recognized tribe located in southwestern Utah.
“The Shivwits Band of Paiutes has long faced jurisdictional uncertainties that have hindered their ability to govern and grow on their own land,” Sen. Curtis said. “I’m proud to work alongside the Shivwits Band and Congresswoman Maloy on legislation that honors tribal sovereignty and strengthens our shared future.”
The lawmakers sponsored the Shivwits Band of Paiutes Jurisdictional Clarity Act, S. 1508/H.R. 3073, to ensure that both the Shivwits Band and third parties seeking to engage in business and development on Shivwits Band Indian lands will have access to a state or federal court forum to resolve disputes.
“The Shivwits Band of Paiutes wants to do business with third parties, but without a clear legal framework they are at risk,” said Rep. Maloy. “This bill will give the Shivwits Band jurisdictional clarity and the freedom they desire to enter into contracts that have the potential to spur economic growth on their lands.”
Shivwits Band Council Vice Chair Tina Gonzales said the tribe supported the Utah congressional delegation’s support and recognition of the complexities surrounding its jurisdictional uncertainties and the importance of having authority to control the leasing of their own lands to support economic development.
“We believe that fostering self-sufficiency through robust economic growth is essential for empowering our tribal community today and ensuring a prosperous future for our entire community for generations to come,” she said.