This new legislation is fundamentally unfair, would turn the federal government into a tax collector for states against tribes, and would be destructive of many settled state-tribal agreements and state laws that have provided a measure of equity to tribal governments by sharing revenues or exempting tribes from state retail sales taxes. In October of 1999, the Resources Committee held an oversight hearing on taxation in Indian Country, however no formal hearing was held on H.R. 1814. Chairman Young now plans to hold a mark-up of H.R. 1814 and introduce the substitute legislation. NCAI is urging Chairman Young and members of the Committee to reject H.R. 1814, or to at least hold a formal hearing on the legislation before a mark-up is held. NCAI strongly urges tribal governments to write letters to Chairman Young and members of the Resources Committee requesting the same.
Tribal action is needed now .
This tax issue is critical to the future of all economic development and self-governance in Indian Country. Attached is NCAI's letter to Chairman Young to be used as a model, though we urge tribes to tailor their letters to address their unique circumstances. Organizing Meetings - NCAI will hold a series of meetings in Washington, D.C. to assist in organizing our collective efforts on this issue. Tribal leaders and tribal lobbyists and representatives are welcome and urged to attend. 1301 Connecticut Ave, NW, Washington, D.C. 20009, Second Floor, near the south entrance to the Dupont Circle Metro Station.