Bill > LD958

This bill prohibits the use of eminent domain (the government's power to take private property for public use) on specific tribal lands in Maine, including Passamaquoddy Indian territory, Penobscot Indian territory, Houlton Band Trust Land, and Mi'kmaq Nation Trust Land. The bill amends existing laws to explicitly state that no land within these designated tribal territories can be taken for public uses under state law. This means that state and local governments can no longer seize land from these tribes for projects like infrastructure, utilities, or other public purposes without the tribes' consent. The bill includes provisions that require the tribes to agree to these changes, with each part of the legislation taking effect only after receiving written certification from the respective tribal chiefs. The goal appears to be protecting tribal land rights and preventing involuntary land transfers, which represents a significant shift in the legal relationship between the state of Maine and its Native American tribes.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=958&snum=132