Bill > A08289

This bill amends the New York State Indian law to strengthen protections for Indian reservation lands and address law enforcement issues, specifically focusing on intrusions and drug trafficking. The first section modifies existing law to more explicitly prohibit unauthorized entry, settlement, or business operations on tribal lands, and provides a detailed process for removing intruders. It empowers district attorneys to file complaints on behalf of tribes when unauthorized individuals are present on reservation lands, and allows county judges to issue removal warrants and potentially impose jail time for repeat offenders. The bill also introduces provisions for confiscating businesses or equipment related to intrusions, and gives tribes the definitive authority to designate who is considered an intruder. The second section adds a new provision that allows the governor, state police superintendent, county sheriffs, and local police chiefs to enter into law enforcement agreements with the Seneca Nation, specifically covering criminal law enforcement activities within their federally-recognized lands. These agreements can define criminal offenses, penalties, deputization procedures, and extradition terms, with state courts required to recognize and enforce such agreements in criminal proceedings arising from offenses committed on Seneca Nation lands.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8289