Agua Caliente Land Exchange Fee to Trust Confirmation Act

Jan 5, 2023
Jan 5, 2023

Summary

Places about 2,560 acres of land in California into a trust for the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, making it part of their reservation.

What problem does this solve?

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians owned land that was not officially part of their reservation, which could create issues with how the land is managed. This law solves the problem by formally adding the land to their reservation under a U.S. trust, clarifying its legal status.

What does this law do?

Land placed into trust
Transfers approximately 2,560 acres of land owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians into a trust held by the United States for the tribe's benefit.
Reservation expansion
Makes the newly trusted land an official part of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' reservation.
Gaming prohibited on new land
Forbids any gaming activities, like casinos, on the land being taken into trust under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

Who does this affect?

  • Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

What is the real world impact?

Confirms tribal land status
Formally recognizes land owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians as part of their reservation. This clarifies legal jurisdiction and helps the tribe manage its lands more effectively.
Restricts economic development
Prevents the tribe from using this specific land for gaming activities, which is often a major source of income for tribes. This could be seen as a limitation on the tribe's self-determination and economic opportunities.

When does this start?

This law takes effect on January 5, 2023.