[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 98 (Tuesday, May 20, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 29354-29380]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-11086]



[[Page 29353]]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part V





Department of the Interior





-----------------------------------------------------------------------



Bureau of Indian Affairs



25 CFR Part 292



Gaming on Trust Lands Acquired After October 17, 1988; Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 20, 2008 / Rules 
and Regulations  

[[Page 29354]]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Bureau of Indian Affairs

25 CFR Part 292

RIN 1076-AE81


Gaming on Trust Lands Acquired After October 17, 1988

AGENCY: Bureau of Indian Affairs, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is publishing regulations 
implementing section 2719 of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). 
IGRA allows Indian tribes to conduct class II and class III gaming 
activities on land acquired after October 17, 1988, only if the land 
meets certain exceptions. This rule articulates standards that the BIA 
will follow in interpreting the various exceptions to the gaming 
prohibitions contained in section 2719 of IGRA. It also establishes a 
process for submitting and considering applications from Indian tribes 
seeking to conduct class II or class III gaming activities on lands 
acquired in trust after October 17, 1988.

DATES: Effective Date: June 19, 2008.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Skibine, Director, Office of 
Indian Gaming, (202) 219-4066.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The authority to issue this document is 
vested in the Secretary of the Interior by 5 U.S.C. 301 and 25 U.S.C. 
2, 9, and 2719. The Secretary has delegated this authority to the 
Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs by part 209 of the Departmental 
Manual.

Background

    The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), 25 U.S.C. 2701-2721, was 
signed into law on October 17, 1988. 25 U.S.C. 2719 (a/k/a section 20 
of IGRA) prohibits gaming on lands that the Secretary of the Interior 
acquires in trust for an Indian tribe after October 17, 1988, unless 
the land qualifies under at least one of the exceptions contained in 
that section. If none of the exceptions in section 2719 applies, 
section 2719(b)(1)(A) of IGRA provides that gaming can still occur on 
the lands if:
    (1) The Secretary consults with the Indian tribe and appropriate 
State and local officials, including officials of other nearby tribes;
    (2) After consultation, the Secretary determines that a gaming 
establishment on newly acquired lands would be in the best interest of 
the Indian tribe and its members, and would not be detrimental to the 
surrounding community; and
    (3) The Governor of the State in which the gaming activity is to be 
conducted concurs in the Secretary's determination.
    On September 28, 1994, the BIA issued to all Regional Directors a 
Checklist for Gaming Acquisitions and Two-Part Determinations under 
section 20 of IGRA. This Checklist was revised and replaced on February 
18, 1997. On November 9, 2001, an October 2001 Checklist was issued 
revising the February 18, 1997 Checklist to include gaming related 
acquisitions. On March 7, 2005 a new Checklist was issued to all 
Regional Directors replacing the October 2001 Checklist. On September 
21, 2007 the Checklist was revised and issued to all Regional Directors 
replacing the March 2005 Checklist.
    The regulations implement section 2719 of IGRA by articulating 
standards that the Department will follow in interpreting the various 
exceptions to the gaming prohibition on after-acquired trust lands 
contained in section 2719 of IGRA. Subpart A of the regulations define 
key terms contained in section 2719 or used in the regulation. Subpart 
B delineates how the Department will interpret the ``settlement of a 
land claim'' exception contained in section 2719(b)(1)(B)(i) of IGRA. 
This subpart clarifies that, in almost all instances, Congress must 
enact the settlement into law before the land can qualify under the 
exception. Subpart B also delineates what criteria must be met for a 
parcel of land to qualify under the ``initial reservation'' exception 
contained in section 2719(b)(1)(B)(ii) of IGRA. The regulation sets 
forth that the tribe must have present and historical connections to 
the land, and that the land must be proclaimed to be a new reservation 
pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 467 before the land can qualify under this 
exception. Finally, subpart B articulates what criteria must be met for 
a parcel of land to qualify under the ``restored land for a restored 
tribe'' exception contained section 2719(b)(1)(B)(iii) of IGRA. The 
regulation sets forth the criteria for a tribe to qualify as a 
``restored tribe'' and articulates the requirement for the parcel to 
qualify as ``restored lands.'' Essentially, the regulation requires the 
tribe to have modern connections to the land, historical connections to 
the area where the land is located, and requires a temporal connection 
between the acquisition of the land and the tribe's restoration. 
Subpart C sets forth how the Department will evaluate tribal 
applications for a two-part Secretarial Determination under section 
2719(b)(1)(A) of IGRA. Under this exception, gaming can occur on off-
reservation trust lands if the Secretary, after consultation with 
appropriate State and local officials, including officials of nearby 
tribes, makes a determination that a gaming establishment would be in 
the best interest of the tribe and its members and would not be 
detrimental to the surrounding community. The Governor of the State 
must concur in any Secretarial two-part determination. The regulation 
sets forth how consultation with local officials and nearby tribes will 
be conducted and articulates the factors the Department will consider 
in making the two-part determination. The regulation also gives the 
State Governor up to one year to concur in a Secretarial two-part 
determination, with an additional 180 days extension at the request of 
either the Governor or the applicant tribe. Subpart D clarifies that 
the regulations do not disturb existing decisions made by the BIA or 
the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC).

Previous Rulemaking Activity

    On September 14, 2000, we published proposed regulations in the 
Federal Register (65 FR 55471) to establish procedures that an Indian 
tribe must follow in seeking a Secretarial Determination that a gaming 
establishment would be in the best interest of the Indian tribe and its 
members and would not be detrimental to the surrounding community. The 
comment period closed on November 13, 2000. On December 27, 2001 (66 FR 
66847), we reopened the comment period to allow consideration of 
comments received after November 13, 2000, and to allow additional time 
for comment on the proposed rule. The comment period ended on March 27, 
2002. On January 28, 2002 we published a notice in the Federal Register 
(67 FR 3846) to correct the effective date section which incorrectly 
stated that the deadline for receipt of comments was February 25, 2002 
and was corrected to read ``Comments must be received on or before 
March 27, 2002.'' No further action was taken to publish the final 
rule.
    On October 5, 2006, we published a new proposed rule in the Federal 
Register (71 FR 58769) because we have determined that the rule should 
address not only the exception contained in section 2719(b)(1)(A) of 
IGRA (Secretarial Determination), but also the other exceptions 
contained in section 2719, in order to explain to the public how the 
Department interprets these exceptions. The comment period ended on 
December 5, 2006. On December 4, 2006, we published a notice in the 
Federal Register (71 FR 70335) to extend the comment period and make

[[Page 29355]]

corrections. The comment period ended on December 19, 2006. On January 
17, 2007, we published a notice in the Federal Register (72 FR 1954) to 
reopen the comment period to allow for consideration of comments 
received after December 19, 2006. Comments received during the comment 
period ending December 5, 2006, and February 1, 2007, were considered 
in the drafting of this final rule.

Review of Public Comments

    Stylistic and conforming changes were made to the proposed 
regulations and are reflected throughout the final regulations. 
Substantive changes, if any, are addressed in the comments and 
responses below:

Subpart A--General Provisions

Section 292.1 What is the purpose of this part?
    One comment regarded the applicability of section 2719 of IGRA to 
restricted fee lands and suggested a change in Sec.  292.1. Another 
comment regarded the applicability of section 2719 to trust or 
restricted lands of individual Indians.
    Response: The recommendation to modify Sec.  292.1 was not adopted, 
because section 2719(a) refers only to lands acquired in trust after 
October 17, 1988. The omission of restricted fee from section 2719(a) 
is considered purposeful, because Congress referred to restricted fee 
lands elsewhere in IGRA, including at sections 2719(a)(2)(A)(ii) and 
2703(4)(B). Section 292.1 was not amended to include land taken in 
trust after October 17, 1988 for individual Indians, nor land acquired 
after October 17, 1988 in restricted fee by individual Indians, because 
the language in section 2719 of IGRA is limited to Indian tribes. Also, 
it is important to note that the final regulations do not address any 
restrictions on tribally owned fee land within reservation boundaries, 
because even though such lands are ``Indian lands'' pursuant to section 
2703(4), they are not encompassed by the prohibition in section 2719. 
In addition, tribally owned fee land outside of reservation boundaries 
is not encompassed by section 2703(4) unless a Federal law, other than 
25 U.S.C. 177, directly imposes such limitations on the land, and the 
Indian tribe exercises governmental power over them.
    Several comments regarded whether the regulations for section 2719 
should include the requirements of ``governmental powers'' referenced 
in section 2703(4), and ``jurisdiction'' referenced in section 2710.
    Response: Section 2719 does not specifically reference the 
``governmental powers'' and ``jurisdictional'' requirements that are 
referenced in other sections of IGRA. Therefore, the final regulations 
do not include references to these requirements. The governmental 
powers and jurisdictional analysis is not required for the specific 
purpose of determining whether newly acquired lands are otherwise 
exempt from the general prohibition for lands acquired after October 
17, 1988. The governmental powers and jurisdictional requirements are, 
however, a necessary element for determining whether gaming may be 
conducted on newly acquired lands. Therefore, depending on the nature 
of the application or request, the governmental powers and 
jurisdictional elements may be part of the analysis.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
Appropriate State and Local Officials
    Several comments suggested that the 25-mile radius is too narrow 
and either recommended that the regulation include a larger mile limit 
or no mile limit at all.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. From the 
Department's prior experience implementing section 2719, the 25-mile 
radius allows for the adequate representation of local officials when 
conducting an analysis under section 2719(b)(1)(A). See discussion of 
the term ``surrounding community'' below.
    A few comments suggested that the regulation is too broad as it 
applies to ``local officials'' and suggested that the regulation 
qualify the term ``local officials'' by using examples. A few other 
comments suggested that the term ``local officials'' was too vague and 
similarly suggested that the regulation qualify the term by using 
examples.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. The term ``local 
officials'' is adequate. Because governmental organization varies from 
community to community, it is not practical to qualify the term ``local 
officials'' in either an effort to broaden or limit its applicability.
    One comment suggested that the definition should be broadened to 
include other State officials or the Attorney General.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The only State 
official recognized under the definition is the Governor. However, the 
regulation does not limit the Governor from consulting with other State 
officials.
    One comment suggested that the definition should apply to 
appropriate State and local officials in other States if within the 25-
mile radius.
    Response: The definition includes local officials from other States 
if they are within the 25-mile radius. However, the definition only 
recognizes the Governor of the State in which the proposed gaming 
establishment is located.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
Contiguous
    Several comments related to the definition of contiguous. One 
comment suggested removing the definition from the section. A few other 
comments suggested keeping the definition, but removing the second 
sentence that specifies that contiguous includes parcels divided by 
non-navigable waters or a public road or right-of-way. A few comments 
suggested including both navigable and non-navigable waters in the 
definition. Many comments regarded the concept of ``corner 
contiguity.'' Some comments suggested including the concept, which 
would allow parcels that only touch at one point, in the definition. 
Other comments suggested that the definition exclude parcels that only 
touch at a point.
    Response: The recommendation to remove the definition was not 
adopted. Likewise, the recommendation to remove the qualifying language 
pertaining to non-navigable waters, public roads or right-of-ways was 
not adopted. Additionally, the suggestion to include navigable waters 
was not adopted. The concept of ``corner contiguity'' was included in 
the definition. However, to avoid confusion over this term of art, the 
definition uses the language ``parcels that touch at a point.''
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Federal recognition or federally recognized: 
    A few comments suggested modifying the definition to follow the 
Department of the Interior (DOI) and NIGC definitions of Indian tribe 
in 25 CFR 290.2 and 502.13.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. We maintained 
the reference to the list of recognized tribes as it provides notice to 
the public. In response to comments indicating confusion caused by 
separate definitions of ``tribe'' and ``Federal recognition or 
federally recognized,'' the Department deleted the separate definitions 
and included a single definition of ``Indian tribe or tribe.''

[[Page 29356]]

Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Former reservation:
    One comment suggested deleting the word ``last'' in the definition.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
definition clarifies that the last reservation be in Oklahoma, which is 
consistent with the language of the statute.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Land claim:
    One comment suggested striking the words ``any claim'' and adding 
the words ``a legal action seeking title or possession of land.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because a land claim 
does not have to be filed in court in order to fall under the 
definition; the land claim does have to allege that the subject land 
was held in trust or subject to a prohibition against alienation on or 
before October 17, 1988. IGRA's date of enactment was added to clarify 
that claims accruing after its enactment are not included within its 
scope.
    One comment suggested modifying paragraph (1) to read, ``or a 
constitutional, common law, statutory or treaty-based right to be 
protected from government taking of Indian lands.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. The words ``the 
Constitution'' were added to paragraph (1), but the recommendation to 
qualify the cause of action to a takings claim was not adopted.
    One comment suggested including State law claims in the definition.
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted because the land 
claims within the meaning of IGRA arise under Federal statute, Federal 
common law, the U.S. Constitution or a treaty and jurisdiction lies in 
Federal, not State court.
    One comment suggested adding language in paragraph (1) that reads, 
``for the determination of title to lands,'' and language in paragraph 
(2) that reads, ``or the United States.''
    Response: The recommendation to modify paragraph (1) was not 
adopted because it is too narrow; not all claims brought under the 
definition are for the determination of title to lands--sometimes they 
are brought for compensation. The recommendation regarding adding the 
words ``or the United States'' was not adopted because the United 
States is included in the word ``governmental.''
    A few comments suggested various modifications to paragraph (1) 
regarding the words ``Indian'' or ``Indian lands'' in order to remove 
confusion with the definition of Indian lands in IGRA.
    Response: These recommendations were adopted and the references to 
Indian and Indian lands were removed.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Legislative termination:
    One comment suggested deleting the brackets around ``and/or its 
members'' in order to be consistent with Sec.  292.9(b) and Sec.  
292.10(c).
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Nearby Indian tribe:
    A number of comments regarded the 25-mile radius limitation. Some 
comments suggested the definition include no mile limitation while 
others offered various extensions of the mile limitation based on 
whether the area is urban or rural.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. The 25-mile 
radius is consistent throughout the regulations and provides uniformity 
for all the parties involved in the Secretarial Determination process.
    One comment suggested that the definition include a tribe's Federal 
agency service area.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because a tribe's 
service area is too difficult to define for purposes of applying a 
limitation to nearby Indian tribes.
    One comment suggested striking the reference to 25 U.S.C. 2703(4).
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
    A few comments suggested that the definition should include any 
tribes with significant cultural or historical ties to the proposed 
site. One comment suggested that the definition include any tribe 
within the same county as the proposed gaming site, and another comment 
suggested that the definition include any tribe within the same State.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because they are 
beyond the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA. The 
statute specifically uses the word nearby. Therefore, ``any'' tribe 
cannot be included in the definition.
    One comment suggested that the definition should include tribes 
whose on-reservation economic interest may be detrimentally affected by 
the proposed gaming site. Another comment suggested creating a standard 
for ``detrimental impact on nearby tribe.''
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. The definition 
qualifies a ``nearby tribe'' in terms of distance to a proposed gaming 
establishment. Thus, if an Indian tribe qualifies as a nearby Indian 
tribe under the distance requirements of the definition, the 
detrimental effects to the tribe's on-reservation economic interests 
will be considered. If the tribe is outside of the definition, the 
effects will not be considered. The Department will consider 
detrimental impacts on a case-by-case basis, so it is unnecessary to 
include a standard. The definition of ``nearby Indian tribe'' is made 
consistent with the definition of ``surrounding community'' because we 
believe that the purpose of consulting with nearby Indian tribes is to 
determine whether a proposed gaming establishment will have detrimental 
impacts on a nearby Indian tribe that is part of the surrounding 
community under section 20(b)(1)(A) of IGRA. See discussion of the term 
``surrounding community'' below.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Newly acquired lands:
    Several comments inquired as to the applicability of section 2719 
to restricted fee lands, and to trust or restricted lands of individual 
Indians.
    Response: In response to these inquiries, a definition of ``newly 
acquired lands'' was added to the regulations. It encompasses lands the 
Secretary takes in trust for the benefit of an Indian tribe after 
October 17, 1988. It does not encompass lands acquired by a tribe in 
restricted fee after October 17, 1988 as discussed above in a response 
in Sec.  292.1. It does not include land taken in trust after October 
17, 1988 for individual Indians, nor land acquired after October 17, 
1988 in restricted fee by individual Indians, because the language in 
section 2719 of IGRA is limited to Indian tribes.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Reservation:
    In response to comments, the definition of reservation is clarified 
and amended to include four paragraphs. The definition now specifically 
includes land acquired by a tribe from a sovereign, such as pueblo 
grant lands, acknowledged by the United States. Such grants occurred 
prior to the land coming under the jurisdiction of the United States, 
and is a closed set. The definition also specifically includes land set 
aside by the United States for Indian colonies and rancherias for the 
permanent settlement of the tribe, which were encompassed in part by 
the prior reference to ``judicial

[[Page 29357]]

determination, or court-approved stipulated entry of judgment to which 
the United States is a party.'' Both pueblo grant lands and rancherias 
are treated as reservations under existing Indian lands opinions.
    One comment objected that land acquired under the Indian 
Reorganization Act (IRA), for purposes of reorganizing the half-bloods 
residing thereon, would not fall within the meaning of reservation as 
defined in the proposed rule.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and such land is now 
specifically included in the definition. If such land was proclaimed a 
reservation by the Secretary, it would be encompassed with the 
definition of reservation under both paragraphs (1) and (3). If that 
land was not proclaimed a reservation, it would nevertheless fall 
within paragraph (3) of the revised definition, as land acquired by the 
United States to reorganize adult Indians pursuant to statute.
    One comment questioned whether the definition of reservation could 
be interpreted as including a disestablished reservation, or the area 
of a reservation that was ceded, leaving a diminished reservation.
    Response: Reservation within these regulations does not include a 
disestablished reservation. Reservation does not include land ceded 
from the reservation that resulted in a diminished reservation. In 
addition, because the term ``reservation'' has different meanings under 
different statutes, the reference to ``judicial determination, or 
court-approved stipulated entry of judgment to which the United States 
is a party'' was deleted as overly broad and likely inconsistent with 
both the purposes of IGRA and the distinction in IGRA between 
``reservation'' and ``trust land.''
    One comment suggested that the term ``reservation'' in IGRA be the 
same as Indian Country in 25 U.S.C. 1151.
    Response: We did not adopt this comment because Congress in 
enacting IGRA chose to use the concept of Indian lands instead of 
Indian Country. Moreover, Congress in IGRA distinguishes between trust 
lands and reservations in section 2719. Therefore for the purposes of 
these regulations that interpret section 2719 of IGRA, ``reservation'' 
for purposes of gaming on after acquired lands is limited to the four 
delineated categories in the definition of reservation and not lands 
that could be Indian Country for other purposes. Thus for the purposes 
of determining whether gaming can occur pursuant to section 2719, 
reservation does not include all property held in trust, as IGRA 
distinguishes reservation from trust lands in its definitions.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Surrounding community:
    Several comments related to the requirement that local governments 
and nearby Indian tribes be within 25 miles of the site of the proposed 
gaming establishment. Some comments suggested a greater distance, for 
example 50 miles; others urged no limit and instead recommended 
alternate factors, for example the community as defined by the National 
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). One comment suggested that the 
surrounding community include any tribe in the State where the gaming 
facility is located.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. The definition 
was modified so it is consistent with the rest of the regulations and 
the word radius was added. The 25-mile radius is consistent throughout 
the regulations and provides uniformity for all parties involved in the 
Secretarial Determination process. There is no legislative history 
informing Congressional intent in defining how the term ``surrounding 
community'' in section 20(b)(1)(A) of IGRA should be interpreted. 
However, it is reasonable to assume that Congress did not intend that 
all possible communities be consulted, no matter how distant, because 
Congress was concerned with how a proposed gaming establishment would 
affect those individuals and entities living in close proximity to the 
gaming establishment, or those located within commuting distance of the 
gaming establishment. The ``surrounding community'' is defined in order 
for the Secretary to determine whether a proposed gaming establishment 
would be detrimental to the ``surrounding community.'' Since 1994, the 
BIA has published a ``Checklist'' to guide agency officials in 
implementing section 20 of IGRA. The ``surrounding community'' was 
first defined to include local governments within 30 miles of the 
proposed gaming establishment, and nearby Indian tribes within 100 
miles of the proposed gaming establishment. The Checklist was 
subsequently modified in 1997 to include only those local governments 
whose jurisdiction includes or borders the land, and nearby Indian 
tribes located within 50 miles of the proposed gaming establishment 
because our experience with the 1994 standard was that it included 
communities that were not impacted by the gaming establishment. In 
addition, this modification was made so that the term ``surrounding 
community'' would be similar to the consulted community under 25 CFR 
part 151. In 2005 the Checklist modified the term ``surrounding 
community'' to include local governments within ten miles of the 
proposed gaming establishment. The 2005 modification was made because 
the purpose of the consultation with State and local officials is to 
assess detriment to the surrounding community, and our experience in 
limiting the consultation to those local governments with jurisdiction 
over the land or adjacent to the land was too narrow. Ultimately, our 
objective in the regulation is to identify a reasonable and consistent 
standard to define the term ``surrounding community'' and we believe 
that it is reasonable to define the surrounding community as the 
geographical area located within a 25-mile radius from the proposed 
gaming establishment. Based on our experience, a 25-mile radius best 
reflects those communities whose governmental functions, infrastructure 
or services may be affected by the potential impacts of a gaming 
establishment. The 25-mile radius provides a uniform standard that is 
necessary for the term ``surrounding community'' to be defined in a 
consistent manner. We have, however, included a rebuttable presumption 
to the 25-mile radius. A local government or nearby Indian tribe 
located beyond the 25-mile radius may petition for consultation if it 
can establish that its governmental functions, infrastructure or 
services will be directly, immediately and significantly impacted by 
the proposed gaming establishment.
    One comment suggested changing the definition to ``surrounding 
governmental entities'' because it would limit the consultation process 
to a government-to-government basis.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because IGRA uses 
``surrounding community.''
    One comment suggested that the definition be limited to local 
governments and nearby Indian tribes within the State of the applicant 
tribe's jurisdiction.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The definition 
includes local governments and nearby tribes located in other States if 
they are within a 25-mile radius.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    Tribe:
    Several comments requested a more elaborate definition of tribe. 
One comment suggested that all references of ``Indian tribe'' be 
changed to ``tribe.''

[[Page 29358]]

    Response: The comments recommending a more elaborate definition of 
Indian tribe were adopted. The definition was renamed ``Indian tribe or 
tribe.'' It is unnecessary to change all references of ``Indian tribe'' 
to ``tribe'' because they are now both defined.
Section 292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
    General comments regarding Sec.  292.2:
    One comment suggested adding a definition of trust land.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part and is addressed 
in the definition of ``newly acquired lands.''
    One comment suggested adding a definition of ``gaming'' that 
includes ancillary structures such as hotels and parking.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is outside 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested adding a definition of ``State or States.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. The statutory 
term ``State or States'' along with some defining language was inserted 
in Sec. Sec.  292.4, 292.6 and 292.12 in order to add clarity.

Subpart B--Exceptions to Prohibitions on Gaming on Newly Acquired Lands

Section 292.3 When can a tribe conduct gaming activities on trust 
lands?
    The Department received a few comments on this section; mostly 
related to structure. Additionally, a few comments suggested that this 
section is an appropriate section to add a paragraph discussing the 
applicability of these regulations to applications for Secretarial 
Determinations and requests for lands opinions that tribes submitted 
before the effective date of these regulations; for those both acted 
upon and those that are pending.
    Response: The recommendation regarding pending and acted upon 
Secretarial Determinations and requests for lands opinions was adopted 
and addressed in new Sec.  292.26. The comments related to structure 
were not adopted because the section was deleted in its entirety and 
replaced with new Sec.  292.3: ``How does a tribe seek an opinion on 
whether its newly acquired lands meet, or will meet, one of the 
exceptions in this subpart?'' The former section did not offer anything 
that is not covered in other parts of the regulation. Therefore, in 
response to comments requesting guidance on the process for seeking 
opinions under section 2719, the Department added the new section. 
Paragraph (a) allows a tribe to submit a request for an Indian lands 
opinion to either the NIGC or to the Office of Indian Gaming (OIG). As 
a general matter under this paragraph, a tribe should submit the 
request to NIGC when newly acquired lands are already in trust and, for 
example, there is a pending gaming ordinance or management contract 
before the NIGC Chairman or there is a question whether NIGC has, or 
would have, regulatory jurisdiction under IGRA. The tribe should submit 
the request to OIG if the request concerns reservation boundaries or 
reservation status. Paragraph (b) requires the tribe to submit a 
request for an Indian lands opinion to the OIG if the tribe must also 
request a land-into-trust application in order to game on the newly 
acquired lands or the request concerns whether a specific area of land 
is a reservation. An opinion provided in response to a request under 
paragraphs (a) or (b) is not, per se, a final agency action under the 
Administrative Procedures Act (APA). Final agency action only occurs 
when agency officials act on a determination pursuant to powers granted 
them by Congress. Communications from administrative agencies thus 
range ``from obvious agency action, such as adjudications and 
regulation, to informal pronouncements, such as opinion letters,'' 
which are not ?nal agency actions. See, e.g., Sabella v. United States, 
863 F. Supp. 1, 4 (D.D.C. 1994). Cheyenne-Arapaho Gaming Commission v. 
NIGC, 214 F. Supp. 2d 1155, 1158 (N.D. Okla. 2002); Sabella, 863 F. 
Supp. at 5.
Section 292.4 What criteria must trust land meet for gaming to be 
allowed under the exceptions listed in 25 U.S.C. 2719(a) of IGRA?
    This section was renamed ``What criteria must newly acquired lands 
meet under the exceptions regarding tribes with and without a 
reservation?''
    For clarity, the references to ``trust lands'' in this subpart were 
changed to ``newly acquired lands.''
    One comment suggested a rule in this section that precludes 
structures and activities that support or are ancillary to gaming 
operations on contiguous lands.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because section 2719 
of IGRA is concerned with lands on which gaming will occur. Support or 
ancillary operations to gaming facilities do not play a part in the 
analysis as to whether gaming will be permitted under this section.
    One comment objected to any requirement that would limit a tribe to 
acquiring new lands for gaming that are ``adjacent'' to their original 
reservation.
    Response: The requirement that limits a tribe to contiguous lands 
for gaming purposes is already written into law and these regulations 
cannot make a substantive change to that law.
    A few comments suggested a substantial revision of this section so 
that it would eliminate inaccuracies, conform to the statute and add 
clarity.
    Response: The suggestions were adopted in part and the section was 
revised in order to address the concerns and more closely mirror the 
statute.

``Settlement of a Land Claim'' Exception

Section 292.5 What must be demonstrated to meet the ``settlement of a 
land claim'' exception?

    This section was renamed ``When can gaming occur on newly acquired 
lands under a settlement of a land claim?''
    Comments on paragraph (a):
    One comment suggested that the rule should require that, along with 
the State, the affected local governments also must approve a 
settlement if it is to qualify for the exception.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
regulations can neither dictate the language of Congressional 
legislation nor the parties to a particular settlement agreement; 
whether it is a final order or some other enforceable agreement. If a 
local government is a party in a matter concerning a settlement of a 
land claim, then its approval would be necessary.
    One comment suggested that the rule should require that a tribe 
have a demonstrable historical connection to the site chosen.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
regulations can neither dictate the requirements of Congressional 
legislation nor the terms to a particular settlement agreement; whether 
it is a final order or some other enforceable agreement.
    One comment suggested the following insertion at paragraph (a)(2): 
``Has been resolved by congressional enactment; or.''
    Response: This recommendation was addressed through the changes to 
paragraph (a).
    One comment suggested adding a new paragraph (a)(3) as follows: 
``Relates to the acquisition, transfer or exchange of land to 
compensate for or replace land within a reservation that is damaged or 
otherwise rendered uninhabitable by a natural disaster, catastrophic 
event, or other action.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary to either include or exclude, in the

[[Page 29359]]

regulations, claims based on particular sets of facts and 
circumstances.
    A few comments suggested that under paragraph (a)(1), the rule 
should state that land would not be eligible for gaming if the claim is 
dismissed on procedural grounds.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because a dismissal 
on procedural grounds, i.e., laches, does not necessarily mean that a 
claim lacks merit and may not resolve other issues related to 
impairment of title or loss of possession.
    One comment was concerned that under paragraph (a)(1), the language 
``has not been dismissed on substantive grounds'' is vague and another 
comment suggested dropping the clause altogether.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
    One comment suggested that paragraph (a)(1) should include actions 
filed in State court.
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted because the land 
claims within the meaning of IGRA arise under Federal statute, Federal 
common law, the U.S. Constitution or a treaty and jurisdiction lies in 
Federal, not State court.
    One comment suggested that under paragraph (a)(1), language be 
added as follows: ``wherein the relief sought is (A) return of land, 
(B) conveyance of replacement land, or (C) monetary and Congress enacts 
legislation to mandate that a portion of the monetary recovery (i.e., 
the judgment funds) be used to purchase real property.''
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted because the 
regulations cannot dictate the terms of a settlement or the relief a 
tribe may seek. While the language of the regulation does not 
specifically address the scenarios addressed in the comment, when a 
particular land claim otherwise meets the definition, whether for 
example the legal basis involves the impairment of title or other real 
property interest such as a lease, and the relief includes the return 
of land, conveyance of replacement land, or money for the purchase of 
other real property, the land claim may meet the requirements of this 
section as long as it is either subject to Congressional enactment or 
returns to the tribe all of the lands claimed by the tribe.
    One comment suggested paragraph (a)(2) be replaced with the 
following language: ``Is a legal claim of a tribe that has not been 
filed in Federal or State court.''
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted; however, the 
definition and regulation allow for a land claim that is not filed in 
court.
    One comment suggested adding a new paragraph (a)(3) to read: ``Has 
been the subject of Federal legislation which allows for acquisition of 
land.''
    Response: The recommendation was adopted in part and is in included 
in paragraph (a) of the reorganized section.
    One comment suggested replacing in paragraph (a)(2) ``included'' 
with ``identified.''
    Response: Due to a reorganization of this section, the suggestion 
is no longer relevant.
    Comments on paragraph (b):
    One comment suggested replacing in paragraph (b) ``must be covered 
by'' with ``must have been acquired pursuant to.''
    Response: Due to a reorganization of this section, the suggestion 
is no longer relevant.
    One comment suggested the following edits in paragraph (b)(1): 
``States that the tribe is relinquishing its legal land claim to some 
or all of the lands claimed by the tribe as part of the settlement, 
results in the alienation or transfer of title to tribal some or all of 
the lands claimed by the tribe within the meaning of 25 U.S.C. 177, and 
has been enacted into law by the United States Congress; or''
    Response: Due to reorganization of this section, the suggestion is 
no longer relevant, but the concepts behind the edits were adopted in 
part, and incorporated into the reorganized section.
    One comment suggested the following edits in paragraph (b)(2): 
``Returns to the tribe lands identical to the entirety of the exact 
lands claimed by the tribe, does not involve an alienation or transfer 
of title to tribal lands claimed by the tribe that is prohibited under 
25 U.S.C. 177, and is either:''
    Response: Due to a reorganization of this section, the suggestion 
is no longer relevant.
    One comment suggested deleting the following language under 
paragraph (b)(1): ``results in the alienation or transfer of title to 
tribal lands within the meaning of 25 U.S.C. 177, and has been enacted 
into law by the United States Congress.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part as it pertains to 
25 U.S.C. 177.
    One comment suggested replacing paragraph (b)(2) with ``Returns to 
the tribe lands or allows acquisition of lands that the tribe has a 
historical connection to and is either * * * ''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
regulations cannot dictate the terms of the settlement.
    One comment suggested modifying the language in paragraph (b)(2)(i) 
to include both Federal and [S]tate court.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The definition 
precludes actions filed in State court because land claims, within the 
meaning of IGRA, are based on Federal law. In addition, comments 
revealed that the proposed regulations could be read to identify 
settlements between a tribe and State without the involvement of the 
Federal Government. The final regulations clarify that the U.S. must be 
a party to the settlement.
    One comment suggested adding a new paragraph (b)(2)(iii) that 
reads: ``Acquired pursuant to Federal legislation.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part and reflected in 
the reorganized section.
    One comment suggested that the exception should be amended to apply 
to an out-of-court settlement that is approved by the United States and 
that only requires the non-Indian party to voluntarily vacate the 
premises, pay damages, or allows the settlement agreement to be 
implemented through Secretarial approval of some form of conveyance of 
interest in Indian land under existing law.
    Response: The recommendation to amend the exception to apply under 
the exact scenario described by the comment was not adopted; however, 
to the extent that the United States is a party, the scenario would fit 
under the exception.
    One comment suggested replacing the introduction with ``Under this 
section, class II or class III gaming may be conducted on trust lands 
only if the criteria of both (a) and (b) are met.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The section was 
reorganized and the recommendation is no longer relevant.
    A few comments suggested that the rule should require a settlement 
to be ratified either by Congress or consented to by the affected local 
government.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted to the extent that it 
relates to Congressionally enacted settlements and to the extent an 
affected local government is a party to a particular settlement 
agreement, whether it is a final order or some other enforceable 
agreement.

[[Page 29360]]

``Initial Reservation'' Exception

Section 292.6 What must be demonstrated to meet the ``initial 
reservation'' exception?

    One comment suggested that Sec.  292.6(a) inappropriately restricts 
the scope of the ``Federal acknowledgment process'' to the regulatory 
procedures in 25 CFR part 83.
    Response: The Department does not accept the recommendation to 
apply these regulations more broadly to recognition by means other than 
that through 25 CFR part 83. The plain meaning of the statute suggests 
that it applies to tribes acknowledged by this process and no others.
    Comments on paragraph (b):
    Several comments suggested deleting paragraph (b). One comment 
stated that there is no mention of location with respect to tribal 
members or tribal government in IGRA and that it is unfair to tribes 
with widely dispersed populations due to allotment and termination. One 
comment fundamentally disagreed with and recommended eliminating the 
50-mile majority membership requirement.
    Response: These recommendations were adopted in part. While a so-
called ``modern connections'' requirement was not eliminated entirely, 
the paragraph was modified in response to a number of comments that 
suggested that the requirement encompass a wider range of criteria. The 
50-mile majority requirement was eliminated and the paragraph was 
amended to reference a significant number of tribal members or other 
factors that demonstrate the tribe's current connection to the land. 
The inclusion of a modern connections requirement provides an element 
of notice to the surrounding community yet the elimination of the 50-
mile majority requirement recognizes that the standard is too difficult 
to apply in today's mobile work related environment.
    A few comments suggested reducing the 50-mile majority requirement 
to 25 miles so the mileage requirements are the same for both the 
``tribal majority test'' and the ``headquarters test'' in paragraph 
(b). Another comment suggested making the ``50-mile majority test'' and 
the ``headquarters test'' conjunctive instead of disjunctive, for 
example; making the ``or'' an ``and.''
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because the 
purpose of the exception is to assist newly recognized tribes in 
economic development. As long as the tribe has a modern connection to 
the land, the surrounding community has notice of the tribal presence.
    Several comments suggested that the ``headquarters test'' is easily 
manipulated and should not be included. Some comments suggested 
increasing the 25-mile limit.
    Response: The recommendations to remove the headquarters test and 
to alter the 25-mile radius were not adopted because the headquarters 
test is a useful means of determining whether a tribe has a modern 
connection to the newly acquired land and the 25-mile radius is both 
useful and consistent. (The word radius was added to the regulation to 
provide clarity.) Nonetheless, the concerns raised by these comments 
are legitimate because the version of the headquarters test in the 
proposed regulations could be construed as being open to manipulation. 
Therefore, the qualifier was added in the final regulations that the 
tribe's headquarters or other tribal governmental facilities be in 
existence at that location for at least two years at the time of the 
application for land-into-trust. The addition of ``other tribal 
governmental facilities'' was necessary due to concerns that tribes 
often operate out of more than one headquarters or facility.
    One comment suggested that the ``headquarters test'' is not in the 
best interest of the tribe because it may separate a headquarters from 
a tribal population center.
    Response: This concern was addressed through the modification of 
paragraph (b). A tribe may show a modern connection through not only a 
nearby headquarters but also through other tribal governmental 
facilities.
    Comments on paragraph (c):
    A few comments suggested deleting the reference to ``cultural 
connection'' because it is essentially a subset of historical 
connections and adds redundancy and confusion to the regulation.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
    One comment suggested adding specific examples of significant 
historical and cultural connections in paragraph (c), for example, 
``designated in a treaty, whether ratified or not.'' Another comment 
stated that the term ``significant historical connection'' is too vague 
to offer any protection to tribes or citizens and that the regulation 
should not allow gaming on lands to which a tribe has only a transient 
connection. Several comments specifically suggested a definition for 
``significant historical connections.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part through the 
addition of the new definition ``significant historical connections.''
    One comment suggested deleting (c).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The significant 
historical connection requirement insures that the tribe has a 
preexisting connection to the newly acquired lands proposed to be its 
initial reservation. Furthermore, the Department does not believe it is 
good policy to create an initial reservation in an area where the tribe 
has no preexisting connection.
    One comment suggested that the word ``area,'' as it relates to the 
term ``significant historical connection,'' is too broad. The comment 
suggested that gaming should be limited to ancestral homelands and that 
language should be inserted to reference 25 CFR 151.11(b) so that as 
distance from homeland increases--nearby local officials, State 
officials and tribe's input gains greater weight.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the actual 
land to which a tribe has significant historical connection may not be 
available. Additionally, input from nearby local officials, State 
officials and other tribes is not part of the Initial Reservation 
analysis in section 2719.
    One comment suggested that the significant historical connection 
requirement should be uninterrupted connection. Another comment 
suggested that the requirement should show historically exclusive use.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. They would create 
too large a barrier to tribes in acquiring lands and they are beyond 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    General comments on Sec.  292.6:
    One comment noted that there is nothing in the ``Initial 
reservation'' section of the regulations regarding process so the 
public has an opportunity to comment.
    Response: Unlike the exception in IGRA section 2719(b)(1)(A), the 
exceptions in section 2719(b)(1)(B) do not reference an opportunity for 
public comment. Because the section 2719(b)(1)(B) exceptions do not 
require public comment and since they present a fact-based inquiry, it 
is unnecessary to include a requirement for public comment in the 
regulations. Nonetheless, there are opportunities for public comment in 
other parts of the administrative process--for example, in the process 
to take the land in trust and during the NEPA review process. Although 
the regulations do not provide a formal opportunity for public comment 
under subpart B of these regulations, the public may submit written 
comments that are specific to a particular lands opinion. Submissions

[[Page 29361]]

may be sent to the appropriate agency that is identified in Sec.  
292.3.
    One comment suggested that the regulations include the process by 
which the BIA will make their decisions. Another comment suggested that 
the regulations need to include standards by which the Secretary will 
make a decision.
    Response: These recommendations were adopted in part. If the tribe 
does not have a proclaimed reservation on the effective date of these 
regulations, Sec.  292.6(d) provides standards that the tribe must 
demonstrate in order to be proclaimed a reservation under the initial 
reservation exception.
    One comment suggested that the regulations add a section that 
provides that lands far removed from historical territory shall not be 
taken into trust for gaming.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the comment 
raises issues pertaining to 25 CFR part 151--Land Acquisitions.
    One comment suggested that the tribes should be required to analyze 
sites that are close to aboriginal homelands.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. Newly acquired lands 
with significant historical and cultural connections may or may not 
include those that are close to aboriginal homelands.
    A few comments suggested striking all of paragraphs (b) and (d) 
along with a large amount of (c) and (e) so that this paragraph would 
limit ``initial reservation'' to a tribe acknowledged under part 83 and 
the condition that ``the land is located within the external boundaries 
of the first reservation of lands set aside for the tribe.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted, as it does not take 
into account the present circumstances of the tribe's location.
    One comment suggested cross-referencing ``significant historical 
connections'' in the section to Sec.  292.12(b).
    Response: The intent of this recommendation was adopted through 
adding a definition of significant historical connections to the 
definition section.
    One comment suggested that the request for an opinion should 
include the distance of the land from the location where the tribe 
maintains core governmental functions.
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted because the distance 
from the tribal headquarters or other governmental facility is just one 
of three methods by which a tribe can meet the modern connections 
requirement and is therefore not always necessary. Additionally, it is 
not within the scope of IGRA to restrict such analysis to locations 
with ``core'' governmental functions.
    One comment suggested that the regulations require a tribe to 
provide information about the tribe's ancestral ties to the land.
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted; however, ancestral 
ties would be part of the significant historical connection analysis.
    One comment suggested that the regulations use only one test for 
both the ``initial reservation'' exception and the ``restored lands'' 
exception; the test being that a majority of tribal members live within 
50 miles of the proposed gaming site.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The regulations 
articulate a ``modern connections'' test for both the ``initial 
reservation'' and ``restored lands'' exceptions but the 50-mile 
majority requirement was eliminated from each for the reasons discussed 
under the comments for paragraph (b).
    One comment noted that the BIA does not define what uses can be 
made of an initial reservation. The commenter was concerned about an 
initial reservation established solely for casino development.
    Response: An initial reservation may be used solely for the 
establishment of a casino.
    One comment suggested a ``contemporary ties'' test instead of using 
the ``modern connections test'' as set forth in the proposed 
regulations.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. The term 
``contemporary ties'' was not used, but the modern connections test as 
set forth in the proposed regulations was modified using some of the 
suggestions that were given in relation to the ``contemporary ties'' 
test.
    One comment suggested striking (e) and replacing it with ``the 
tribe has not conducted gaming on any other lands proclaimed to be a 
reservation under 25 U.S.C. 467.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. Gaming is allowed on 
the initial reservation under this exception. If other newly acquired 
land is declared a reservation, gaming can occur on it under a two part 
determination without precluding gaming on the initial reservation. To 
preclude gaming on the initial reservation would be contrary to the 
congressional intent in providing this exception.

``Restored Lands'' Exception

Section 292.7 What must be demonstrated to meet the ``restored lands'' 
exception?

    A few comments noted that there are no opportunities for public 
comment on restored lands decisions.
    Response: Unlike the exception in IGRA section 2719(b)(1)(A), the 
exceptions in section 2719(b)(1)(B) do not reference an opportunity for 
public comment. Because the section 2719(b)(1)(B) exceptions do not 
require public comment and since they present a fact-based inquiry, it 
is unnecessary to include a requirement for public comment in the 
regulations. Nonetheless, there are opportunities for pubic comment in 
other parts of the administrative process--for example, in the process 
to take the land in trust and during the NEPA review process. Although 
the regulations do not provide a formal opportunity for public comment 
under subpart B of these regulations, the public may submit written 
comments that are specific to a particular lands opinion. Submissions 
may be sent to the appropriate agency that is identified in Sec.  
292.3.
    One comment suggested that the tests for significant historic 
connections and modern connections are deficient because they allow 
tribes without true historic ties and with inadequate modern ties to 
game on lands under the restored lands exception.
    Response: The Department received comments suggesting the opposite 
of this argument as well; suggesting that the historical and modern 
tests were too restrictive. The final regulations consider both sides 
of this issue and modifications were made accordingly.
    One comment suggested using the term ``recognized by the United 
States'' instead of the term ``federally recognized'' because of a 
concern of confusion arising from the defined term ``federally 
recognized'' in the proposed regulations.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted; however, the 
potential confusion was remedied through the omission of a defined term 
``federally recognized'' in the final regulation in favor of a 
modification of the term ``Indian tribe or tribe.''
    One comment suggested adding a paragraph to Sec.  292.7 that the 
lands acquired in trust for the tribe meet the requirements of Sec.  
292.11.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted for purposes of clarity.

[[Page 29362]]

Section 292.8 How does a tribe qualify as having been federally 
recognized?

    One comment suggested that paragraph (a) include more details 
regarding the treaty negotiations with the tribe. For example, the 
comment suggested including the following requirements: Detailing who 
negotiated with a tribe; that the negotiations be authorized by the 
Department; that the facts and subject matter of the negotiations be 
memorialized; that the tribe be organized at the time of the 
negotiation; and that a definition of ``negotiates'' be included to 
mean a goal-oriented government-to-government discussion.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. Paragraph (a) 
will be applied on a case by case basis.
    One comment suggested that paragraph (b) should require that the 
Department make the opinion formally, in writing, and according to 
governing regulations.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. While the opinions 
are always going to be in writing, in the past they were made with 
varying degrees of formality depending on the situation presented. 
Regulatory guidance making these requirements mandatory is not feasible 
and is unnecessary.
    One comment suggested paragraph (b) should not use the word 
``could'' because there is a difference between tribes that could and 
tribes that actually did organize under the Acts.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because a 
Departmental opinion that a tribe could organize is evidence of Federal 
recognition, regardless of whether the tribe actually organized under 
the Acts.
    One comment suggested that the word ``including'' in paragraph (c) 
be removed and that the paragraph be modified to require the 
legislation to specifically name the tribe in question and to describe 
the substance of the relationship.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. The word 
``including'' was removed and replaced with the word ``naming.''
    A few comments suggested paragraph (d) needs modification. One 
comment suggested differentiating between land acquired for organized 
and land acquired for landless Indians without ``ethno historic 
coherence.'' Another comment argued that the section is too permissive 
because it qualifies a tribe as having been recognized if the United 
States acquires land in trust for a tribe's benefit.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. Paragraph (d), as 
written, provides sound guidance to the Department in issuing its 
opinion regarding whether a tribe was once federally recognized.
    One comment suggested paragraph (e) should require certain 
standards regarding the tribe, the relationship with the Federal 
Government, and what constitutes evidence.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because the 
regulation needs no further elaboration and is clear on its face.
    One comment suggested striking the word ``federally'' from the 
introduction sentence and the word ``Federal Government'' from 
paragraph (e).
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because IGRA is a 
Federal statute concerning federally recognized tribes, 25 U.S.C. 
2703(5).
    One comment suggested that the section include a paragraph (f) that 
requires the tribe seeking a lands opinion to be the political and 
genealogical successor to the tribe identified through paragraphs (a) 
through (e).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary. These concerns are addressed and inherent in the restored 
lands analysis under Sec. Sec.  292.9-12.
    One comment suggested using Professor Cohen's test for Federal 
recognition, which it characterized as Congressional or Executive 
action and a continuing relationship with the group, and that restored 
lands opinion should be made by the BIA's Branch of Acknowledgment and 
Research (BAR), now the Office of Federal Acknowledgment (OFA).
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because OFA's 
expertise is in analyzing a petitioner under other criteria, such as 
community, political influence, and genealogy, not land matters. The 
section already requires Executive or Congressional action. The 
continuing relationship can be evaluated under (e), but is not required 
when any of factors (a) through (d) are demonstrated.

Section 292.9 How does a tribe show that it lost its government-to-
government relationship?

    A comment questioned how old a document must be to be considered 
``historical'' and another comment wanted to include as acceptable 
evidence, documentation from sources other than the Federal Government, 
including oral histories, to show that the Federal Government either 
affirmatively terminated its relationship or that the relationship 
ceased to exist, such as through inaction.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. Although 
``historical'' is somewhat imprecise, it adds clarity to the type of 
documentation that is acceptable evidence under this section. Modern 
documents about events in the past are not acceptable evidence. 
Acceptable documentation is written documentation from the Federal 
Government specifically terminating the relationship, or indicating 
consistently that there is no longer a government-to-government 
relationship with the tribe or its members. Historical or modern 
accounts that conclude or assume that there is no government-to-
government relationship, or that the relationship has lapsed through 
inaction of the tribe or the government, are secondary evidence and are 
not acceptable evidence within the meaning of this section. Similarly, 
historical or modern accounts that the Federal Government did not or 
does not acknowledge a specific responsibility with the group because 
there is no longer a trust asset to protect or disburse, or because the 
Federal Government did not or does not know who the group is, are not 
acceptable evidence, even if the account is from the Federal 
Government.
    One comment stated that in paragraph (a), the Congressional action 
must be clear that the relationship was terminated and that the tribe 
be identified by name.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the commenter 
did not suggest how to clarify the paragraph. The paragraph, as 
written, is sufficient to address the commenter's concerns.
    One comment suggested adding the phrase ``clearly and affirmatively 
acted to'' after ``Executive Branch,'' in paragraph (b), in order to 
preclude tribes from asserting that administrative errors constitute 
deliberate acts of termination.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the words 
``show'' and ``no longer'' are adequate.
    A few comments argued that the paragraph (b) should give no 
excessive deference to the Department of the Interior or the Department 
of Justice and that all branches of the Federal Government should be 
given equal weight. One comment suggested adding ``Federal Government'' 
at the end of the first sentence. In addition to adding ``Federal 
Government,'' another comment suggested striking everything but the 
first sentence.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part and the paragraph 
was modified by using the words ``Federal Government.'' The second 
sentence was retained because it is necessary.
    One comment stated that in paragraph (b) the rule should make clear 
that the

[[Page 29363]]

documentation include evidence that the tribal government existed at 
the time of the termination, that the acts constituting the termination 
were unambiguous, and that the subsequent acts by the Government were 
consistent with the tribe's termination.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. Tribe is a defined 
term and the definition is adequate to address the commenter's concern. 
The language pertaining to government action requires that the action 
be unambiguous. When termination is unambiguous, then it is not 
necessary to review whether subsequent acts are consistent with the 
termination.
    One comment suggested striking the language ``or its members'' in 
paragraph (b) because the comment stated that there cannot be a 
government-to-government relationship with members apart from a tribal 
government.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The language was 
kept in order to accommodate a wide variety of circumstances.
    One comment suggested modifying the preamble of this section with 
the following: ``as having at some later time lost its government-to-
government relationship with the United States.'' The comment stated 
that the change makes the preamble consistent with the language of 
Sec.  292.7(b) and the introductions to Sec. Sec.  292.8 and 292.10.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in general and the 
section was modified accordingly. The specific words ``with the U.S.'' 
were not added as they are understood in light of Sec.  292.8.
    One comment questioned whether California rancherias should be 
allowed to qualify as restored lands under IGRA.
    Response: While the California tribes indeed share a unique path 
towards restoration, if the newly acquired lands otherwise meet the 
requirements of the statute and regulations, the exception pertains to 
them.

Section 292.10 How does a tribe qualify as having been restored to 
Federal recognition?

    One comment suggested changing the term ``tribal government'' to 
``tribe,'' in paragraph (a), in order to be consistent.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
    One comment stated that paragraph (a) should make clear that the 
statute must be unambiguous as to its intent and identify the tribe 
being restored.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the present 
language anticipates this clarity and specificity.
    One comment stated that 25 U.S.C. 2719(b)(1)(B)(iii) unambiguously 
restricts application of the restored lands exception to ``an Indian 
tribe that is restored to Federal recognition.'' Thus, it argues, 
paragraph (a) is overly broad and should be modified because it allows 
recognition, acknowledgment or restoration through legislative 
enactment, including a tribe's initial recognition.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because Congress has 
not been clear in using a single term in restoration bills. 
Additionally, the addition of ``(required for tribes terminated by 
Congressional action)'' in paragraph (a) addresses this issue. To the 
extent this comment concerned ``initial'' recognition by Congress where 
no prior relationship existed, legislation would not be encompassed by 
Sec.  292.9.
    Several comments suggested that this section needs to include 
administrative actions of restoration, recognition, and reaffirmation 
that are outside the Federal acknowledgment process. For example, one 
comment suggested modifying paragraph (b) to read; ``[r]ecognition 
through administrative action,'' and another suggested ``recognition 
through other official action of the Secretary or his/her designee.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. Neither the express 
language of IGRA nor its legislative history defines restored tribe for 
the purposes of section 2719(b)(1)(B)(iii). When Congress enacted IGRA 
in 1988, it authorized gaming by existing federally recognized tribes 
on newly acquired lands if those lands were within or contiguous to the 
boundaries of an existing reservation. If the tribe had no reservation, 
Congress authorized gaming on newly acquired lands within the 
boundaries of its former reservation. We can safely infer that Congress 
understood that a list of federally recognized tribes existed and 
authorized on-reservation, or on former reservation, gaming for those 
tribes. We must, therefore, provide meaning to Congress's creation of 
an exception for gaming on lands acquired into trust ``as part of the 
restoration of lands for an Indian tribe restored to Federal 
recognition.'' We believe Congress intended restored tribes to be those 
tribes restored to Federal recognition by Congress or through the part 
83 regulations. We do not believe that Congress intended restored 
tribes to include tribes that arguably may have been administratively 
restored prior to the part 83 regulations.
    In 1988, Congress clearly understood the part 83 process because it 
created an exception for tribes acknowledged through the part 83 
process. The part 83 regulations were adopted in 1978. These 
regulations govern the determination of which groups of Indian 
descendants were entitled to be acknowledged as continuing to exist as 
Indian tribes. The regulations were adopted because prior to their 
adoption the Department had made ad hoc determinations of tribal status 
and it needed to have a uniform process for making such determinations 
in the future. We believe that in 1988 Congress did not intend to 
include within the restored tribe exception these pre-1979 ad hoc 
determination. Moreover, Congress in enacting the Federally Recognized 
Indian Tribe List Act of 1994 identified only the part 83 procedures as 
the process for administrative recognition. See Notes following 25 
U.S.C. 479a.
    The only acceptable means under the regulations for qualifying as a 
restored tribe under IGRA are by Congressional enactment, recognition 
through the Federal acknowledgment process under 25 CFR 83.8, or 
Federal court determination in which the United States is a party and 
concerning actions by the U.S. purporting to terminate the relationship 
or a court-approved settlement agreement entered into by the United 
States concerning the effect of purported termination actions. While 
past reaffirmations were administered under this section, they were 
done to correct particular errors. Omitting any other avenues of 
administrative acknowledgment is consistent with the notes accompanying 
the List Act that reference only the part 83 regulatory process as the 
applicable administrative process.
    One comment stated that paragraph (c) is contrary to the Federally 
Recognized Indian Tribe List Act of 1994, which it stated controls the 
analysis of this rule. The comment argues that a ``court-approved 
stipulated entry of judgment'' is not a ``decision'' on the merits as 
specified in the Act.
    Response: According to Department's analysis, paragraph (c) is not 
inconsistent with the List Act. The litigation encompassed by Sec.  
292.10 concerns challenges to specific actions taken by the Federal 
Government terminating, or purporting to terminate a relationship, such 
as the Tillie Hardwick litigation in California. There is no reason 
under IGRA or the List Act to preclude a settlement concerning 
challenged termination actions from ``restoring'' a government-to-
government relationship if the U.S. is a party and the court approves 
it.
    One comment suggested adding the following language to paragraph 
(c):

[[Page 29364]]

``Was entered into by the United States which:'' and striking paragraph 
(1).
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part and the paragraph 
was modified accordingly.
    One comment suggested separating (c) into two parts as follows: 
``(c) Recognition through a judicial determination; or (d) Recognition 
through a court-approved stipulated entry of judgment or other 
settlement agreement.'' The comment stated that recognition through a 
judicial determination should be sufficient, whether or not the 
judicial determination satisfies the criteria set forth in paragraphs 
(1) and (2).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. While the structure 
of the paragraph was changed, the criteria set forth in (1) and (2) are 
still necessary. At issue is the government-to-government relationship 
between the U.S. and the tribe, and the U.S. must be a party in order 
to be bound by the court's decision.
    One comment suggested that a court-approved ``settlement 
agreement'' should be sufficient, whether or not it is styled a 
``stipulated entry of judgment.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
    One comment suggests striking the word ``Provides,'' in paragraph 
(2), and replacing it with ``Settles claims'' in order to remedy a 
potential scenario where the settlement agreement omits pertinent 
language but, nonetheless, settles the tribe's claim that it was never 
legally terminated.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted, consistent with prior 
administrative practice concerning the Tillie Hardwick litigation.
    One comment stated that since there are no judicial findings in a 
court-approved stipulated entry of judgment, such means provide an 
inadequate basis to restore a tribe.
    Response: This concern was addressed through the revision to 
paragraph (c). The relevant operative language in the Federal court 
determination or court-approved settlement agreement must include 
language pertaining to termination rather than restoration.
    One comment noted that parties do not enter into judicial 
determinations. Thus, it argued, paragraph (1) does not make sense as 
it pertains to paragraph (c).
    Response: This concern was addressed and the paragraph was amended 
accordingly.
    One comment suggested that the regulations should provide a 
mechanism to give notice of any action to affected local communities. 
Furthermore, the comment suggested that the rule should make clear that 
the party has standing to intervene if it can demonstrate that it is 
affected and that the tribe should not be able to raise sovereign 
immunity as a bar.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because they are 
beyond the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested inserting language requiring the applicant 
group to clearly establish by documented evidence that its current 
members are directly descended from members of the terminated tribe.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because requiring 
genealogies of tribal members is beyond the scope of the regulations, 
inconsistent with IGRA and not necessary in order to decide whether the 
applicant tribe is a restored tribe.

Section 292.11 What are ``restored lands?''

    One comment suggested striking the word ``specific'' in paragraph 
(a). A few comments suggested striking any language in paragraph (a) 
and Sec.  292.11 pertaining to a geographical area or parameters.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. The regulations 
include a contingency for legislation that requires or authorizes the 
Secretary to take land into trust for the benefit of a tribe within a 
specific geographic area because in such scenarios, Congress has made a 
determination which lands are restored. Because the inclusion or 
exclusion of specific geographical areas in restoration legislation is 
beyond the control of the Department, the regulations must address both 
contingencies.
    One comment suggested that language in paragraph (b) should provide 
expert administrative guidance to Congress when it drafts restoration 
legislation.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is outside 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested that the criteria in paragraph (b) should 
apply to land acquired by a tribe that is recognized through 25 CFR 
83.8 as well.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and the paragraph was 
modified accordingly. In order to adopt this and other recommendations, 
the section was re-organized.
    One comment suggested that paragraph (b) and all related paragraphs 
in Sec.  292.12 should be revised with the requirement that the tribe's 
modern and historical connection to the land must have been continuous 
since at least before October 17, 1988.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
inconsistent with the purposes of this provision of IGRA and is thus 
beyond the scope of the regulations.
    One comment suggested inserting the words ``recognized, 
acknowledged or'' into both paragraph (a) and (b) because the broader 
language is consistent with Sec.  292.10(a). Also, the comment 
suggested adding the words ``for the benefit of the tribe'' in 
paragraph (a) and replacing the words ``the restoration'' with the word 
``such'' in paragraph (b).
    Response: These recommendations were adopted in part and the 
paragraphs were modified accordingly.
    One comment suggested modifying paragraph (b) by replacing ``modern 
connection'' with ``contemporary ties.'' The comment also suggested 
striking the word ``significant'' and removing the temporal 
requirement.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. However, the 
modern connections test as set forth in the proposed regulations was 
modified using some of the suggestions that were given in relation to 
the ``contemporary ties'' test. Striking the word ``significant'' and 
removing the temporal requirement would so broaden the benefit to 
restored tribes that it would be detrimental to other recognized 
tribes, contrary to Congressional intent.
    One comment suggested striking the words ``the restoration'' from 
paragraph (b) and striking the language pertaining to the modern, 
historical and temporal requirements in Sec.  292.12. Instead, the 
comment suggested replacing the reference to the requirements with: 
``The land is located within an area where the tribe has connections to 
the lands that meet the requirements of Sec.  292.12.''
    Response: These recommendations were adopted in part. The phrase 
``the restoration'' is necessary and therefore retained in the 
regulations. The recommendation pertaining to referencing Sec.  292.12, 
instead of listing the requirements, was adopted.
    One comment stated that there is a structural ambiguity in Sec.  
292.11 because the conjunctions are not clear and that the section 
needs clarified. For example, the paragraph could be read as requiring 
(a or b) and c, or it could be read as requiring a or (b and c).
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and the section was 
modified in order to clarify that ``the tribe must show at least one of 
the following'' in order for the newly acquired lands to qualify as 
restored lands.

[[Page 29365]]

    One comment suggested adding a number of paragraphs in order to 
address Oklahoma tribes in this section.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it in 
unnecessary to single them out. Limitations on the Oklahoma tribes are 
specifically addressed in other parts of section 2719 and the 
regulations.
    One comment stated that the rule should conform more closely to 
applicable law and suggested adding a paragraph (d) to require that the 
land be the first trust acquisition following restoration.
    Response: This recommendation to add a paragraph (d) was not 
adopted; however, temporal limitations are addressed in Sec.  292.12 of 
the regulations.

Section 292.12 How does a tribe establish its connection to the land?

    This section was renamed, ``How does a tribe establish its 
connection to newly acquired lands for the purposes of the `restored 
lands' exception?''
    Paragraph (a):
    Several comments concerned the ``headquarters test'' in paragraph 
(a). Comments ranged from support to requests to eliminate the test all 
together. For example, some comments requested that the rule be 
excluded because it is arbitrary and potentially subject to abuse or 
manipulation; some suggested removing the test without explanation--one 
comment suggests that the headquarters test was designed specifically 
to accommodate a particular tribe. Some comments suggested that if the 
headquarters test is included, there should be a temporal requirement 
that requires the headquarters to be located within 25 miles of the 
proposed lands since before the enactment of IGRA. Another comment 
suggested the temporal requirement be 30 years. One comment stated that 
25 miles is too great a distance, while another comment suggested it 
should be extended to 50 miles.
    Response: The recommendations to remove the headquarters test and 
to alter the 25-mile radius were not adopted because the headquarters 
test is a useful means of determining whether a tribe has a modern 
connection to the newly acquired land and the 25-mile radius is both 
useful and consistent. (The word radius was added to the regulation to 
provide clarity). Nonetheless, the concerns raised by these comments 
are legitimate because the version of the headquarters test in the 
proposed rule could be construed as being open to manipulation. 
Therefore, the qualifier was added in the final rule that the tribe's 
headquarters or other tribal governmental facilities be in existence at 
that location for at least two years at the time of the application for 
land-into-trust. The language of ``other tribal governmental 
facilities'' was added to address concerns that tribes often operate 
out of more than one headquarters or facility.
    A few comments suggested adding a paragraph to the modern 
connection test that allows land that is located within the tribe's 
service area--as designated by legislation restoring the government-to-
government relationship with the tribe, or by the BIA, Department of 
Health and Human Services or by the Department of Housing and Urban 
Development. Similarly, one comment suggested including the following 
language at the end of paragraph (a): ``or the land has been designated 
by the BIA as included within the [t]ribe's service population area.''
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because the 
service area is not necessarily defined by the DOI and would thus add 
complication to the analysis due to the added necessity of 
collaboration with other agencies. Furthermore, the tribe's service 
area is often based on factors not connected with the DOI's section 
2719 analysis and is often ill-defined, overlapping and potentially 
inconsistent.
    Several comments suggest removing the ``modern connections'' test 
because, for example, the test is not in the plain language of IGRA, 
and the test is contradicted by case law (e.g., Grand Traverse Band of 
Ottawa and Chippewa Indians v. United States Attorney, 198 F.Supp. 2d 
920 (W.D. Mich. 2002), aff'd 369 F.3d 960 (6th Cir. 2004); Confederated 
Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Suislaw Indians v. Babbitt, 116 
F.Supp. 2d 155 (D.C. Cir. 2000)) that focuses on whether the lands were 
historically occupied by the tribe.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. Though the ``modern 
connections'' test is not in the plain language of IGRA, nor is the 
test for a historical connection. The cases cited by the commenter do 
not limit the Department from considering a modern connection and only 
discuss the historical connection in relation to the process by which 
the Department made its decision. Additionally, the cases cited by the 
commenter provide guidance for the interpretation of section 
2719(b)(1)(B)(iii); lands that are taken into trust as part of the 
restoration of lands for an Indian tribe that is restored to Federal 
recognition. The Secretary has discretion to require a modern 
connection as part of the restoration of lands. The modern connection 
test remains in the final regulations because it offers a mechanism to 
balance legitimate local concerns with the goals of promoting tribal 
economic development and tribal self-sufficiency, both of which are 
reflected in IGRA.
    Several comments addressed concerns about the ``modern connection 
test'' and suggested modifying it. For example, a few comments stated 
that the test for a modern connection to the land is too permissive and 
suggested that the casino site must be in the immediate vicinity of the 
tribe's current population or that the 50-mile majority requirement be 
narrowed. Several comments suggested that the modern connection test is 
too narrow and should be broadened to allow the Department to consider 
a greater degree of facts and circumstances or to expand or eliminate 
the 50-mile majority requirement. A few comments noted that a hard-line 
50-mile majority requirement presents practical difficulties when it 
comes to implementation.
    Response: The recommendations to narrow the modern connection test 
were not adopted. Given the potential difficulty and confusion in 
administering the 50-mile majority requirement, the recommendations to 
eliminate the requirement were adopted in favor of a test that allows 
for the consideration of a number of different factors. Additionally, 
in balancing these concerns, the Department added the following 
language in paragraph (a): ``The land is located within the State or 
States where the Indian tribe is presently located, as evidenced by the 
tribe's governmental presence and tribal population, and the tribe can 
demonstrate one or more of the following modern connections to the 
land.''
    One comment suggested requiring both a majority population test and 
a headquarters test.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. As noted, the 50-
mile majority requirement was eliminated. Nonetheless, the purpose of 
the exception is to assist restored tribes in economic development. As 
long as the tribe has a modern connection to the land, the surrounding 
community has notice of the tribal presence.
    One comment suggested adding a requirement for a culturally 
significant modern connection.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is not 
clear what the commenter intended by ``culturally significant.'' 
Assuming the commenter suggested a more narrow interpretation of modern 
connections, the recommendation is not adopted because, while the 
modern connections

[[Page 29366]]

requirement was not eliminated entirely, the paragraph was modified in 
response to a number of comments that suggested that the requirement 
encompass a wider range of criteria. As discussed above, the 50-mile 
majority requirement was eliminated and the paragraph was amended to 
reference a significant number of tribal members or other factors that 
demonstrate the tribe's current connection to the land. The inclusion 
of a modern connections requirement provides an element of notice to 
the surrounding community yet the elimination of the 50-mile majority 
requirement recognizes that the standard is too difficult to apply in 
today's mobile work related environment.
    One comment suggested striking (a) and replacing it with the 
following: ``Contemporary ties to the area in which the land is 
located.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted; however, the modern 
connections test as set forth in the proposed regulations was modified 
using some of the suggestions that were given in relation to the 
``contemporary ties'' test.
    Paragraph (b):
    One comment requested a definition of ``tribe'' that states that an 
unconnected group of Indians, with no common ethno historic 
affiliation, does not constitute a tribe for the purpose of paragraph 
(b).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. Tribe is defined in 
the definition section and applies throughout the regulations.
    One comment stated that the phrase ``significant historical 
connection'' in (b) is interpreted too broadly, and that it should only 
be found when a tribe has had exclusive use and occupancy of an area. 
Additionally, the comment suggested that an Indian Claims Commission 
determination on restored lands should be binding.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. In response to 
numerous comments, the term ``significant historic connection'' is now 
defined in the definition section of these regulations. While not 
limited to the tribe's exclusive use and occupancy area, the definition 
specifies certain criteria that a tribe must show in order to meet the 
definition, e.g., ``the land is located within the boundaries of the 
tribe's last reservation under a ratified or unratified treaty, or a 
tribe can demonstrate by historical documentation the existence of the 
tribe's villages, burial grounds, occupancy or subsistence use in the 
vicinity of the land.''
    One comment suggested that a tribe should not be able to establish 
a historical connection if they are a disparate group of traveling 
Indians traveling through territory at some point in their distant 
history.
    Response: We received comments pertaining to the issue raised by 
this comment that argue both in favor of and against a tribe's ability 
to establish a connection to the land when their past contacts were 
transitory or brief in nature. The definition of ``significant 
historical connection'' establishes criteria which require something 
more than evidence that a tribe merely passed through a particular 
area.
    One comment suggested (b)(2) should reflect advisories in case law 
that support the general idea that there are limits to what can be 
included as restored lands. Another comment suggested that the term 
``significant'' in paragraph (b) is too vague.
    Response: These recommendations were addressed through the addition 
of a definition for ``significant historical connection.''
    A few comments suggested modifying (b)(2) by striking the word 
``documented'' and one comment suggested adding ``whether evidenced by 
documentation or oral history.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the paragraph 
was restructured. The definition of ``significant historical 
connection'' calls for ``historical documentation.'' Because a 
significant historical connection would be documented there is no need 
to include oral history as acceptable evidence. Such oral history is 
unnecessary when documentation is available; it would be insufficient 
alone.
    One comment suggested adding the words ``or by other means'' in 
paragraph (b)(1) because there are other valid means by which a 
reservation may have been established other than by treaty for purposes 
of Sec.  292.12(b).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary. The reference to reservation under a ratified or 
unratified treaty is only one manner in which a significant historical 
connection can be demonstrated according to the definition. There is no 
need to broaden this portion of the definition because the evidence of 
the tribe's villages, burial grounds, occupancy or subsistence use in 
the vicinity of the land will identify the historical connections 
without raising the ambiguity that ``other means'' may create.
    One comment suggested modifying the language in the introduction to 
Sec.  292.12 to read ``Sec.  292.11(b).''
    Response: This recommendation was rendered unnecessary by the 
rewriting of Sec.  292.11.
    One comment suggested changing the word ``court'' to ``courts'' in 
paragraph (b)(2).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the paragraph 
was restructured and the reference to specific evidence deleted as 
unnecessarily restrictive.
    One comment stated that the word ``significant'' in paragraph (b) 
is insufficient because it is ambiguous and provides little guidance as 
to temporal requirements. Some comments suggested deleting the word 
``significant'' in paragraph (b) because it seems to create a higher 
standard for historical ties in comparison to modern ties. A few 
comments also suggested deleting the language pertaining to giving 
Federal Government documents significant weight. One comment suggested 
modifying the language to read, ``the land is located in an area to 
which the tribe has significant documented historical connections; or 
the tribe can establish any other evidence that demonstrates the 
existence of a significant historical connection to the land or area in 
which the land is located.''
    Response: These recommendations were adopted in part and addressed 
by the changes to the definition of significant historical connection. 
The suggestion to delete ``significant'' was not adopted because the 
word reinforces the notion that the connection must be something more 
than ``any'' connection. The definition does not include a temporal 
requirement because such inquiry is highly dependant of the facts and 
circumstances of each tribe's historical connection to the land. The 
suggestion regarding the weight given to Federal Government documents 
was adopted as unnecessarily restrictive.
    One comment suggested adding aboriginal language in paragraph (b).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is unclear 
what the comment was meant to accomplish.
    Paragraph (c):
    One comment requested that the rules put all restored tribes on an 
even playing field by incorporating the, so called, Grand Traverse 
standard into the rule.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in so far as we followed 
the Grand Traverse standard that if the tribe is acknowledged under 25 
CFR 83.8, and already has an initial reservation proclaimed after 
October 17, 1988, the tribe may game on newly acquired lands under the 
restored lands exception provided that it is not gaming on any other 
land.
    One comment suggested that the rule further define ``temporal 
connection''

[[Page 29367]]

because the degree of temporal connection to the land varies among 
tribes, especially since their post-termination relations with State 
and local governments likewise varies, depending on the level of 
hostilities.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The paragraph, as 
written, takes into account a wide range of variables.
    One comment suggested change the temporal limit from 25 to 20 
years.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The Department 
received numerous comments arguing for both less than and more than 25 
years. The 25 year number is both a practical and reasonable number 
based on the Department's experience under section 2719.
    One comment stated that (c) is inadequate because (c)(1) allows 
anywhere from a 6 minute to a 100 year span and (c)(2) gives a 25 year 
period. One comment suggested changing the conjunction between 
paragraph (1) and (2) under (c) from an ``or'' to an ``and'' because 
the commenter suggested that this would make the section consistent 
with court decisions.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. Paragraph (c)(1) 
considers that there are often a number of impediments involved in a 
tribe's efforts to acquire restored lands after the event officially 
restoring the tribe. Also, placing a time cap on the ability of a tribe 
to acquire land for gaming, when it is their first attempt to acquire a 
site for gaming, is contrary to Federal Indian policy as stated in 
IGRA. However, a cap of 25 years, as discussed in (c)(2), addresses the 
concerns about a tribe's open ended ability to acquire lands for 
gaming. If a tribe already has newly acquired lands, then a time cap 
and its limiting effect to acquire a site for gaming does not undermine 
IGRA's stated policy goals.
    One comment suggested modifying paragraph (c)(1) by striking 
``tribe has'' and adding ``United States * * * in trust status for the 
tribe.''
    Response: This recommendation was addressed by the addition of the 
definition for ``newly acquired lands.''
    One comment suggested striking (c)(1)&(2). One comment suggested 
striking (c)(2) and replacing it with the following: ``if a tribe has 
acquired no other land for gaming purposes since its restoration 
without regard to how much time has passed since the tribe's 
restoration.''
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because the 
temporal limitation effectuates IGRA's balancing of the gaming 
interests of newly acknowledged and/or restored tribes with the 
interests of nearby tribes and the surrounding community.
    One comment suggested modifying paragraph (c)(1) to read, ``The 
land is the first land that the tribe has acquired pursuant to the 
Department of the Interior's regulations or procedures for gaming 
acquisitions since the tribe was restored to Federal recognition and 
the tribe is not gaming on any other trust lands; or.'' The comment 
stated that the phrase ``trust land'' should be added because Sec.  
292.12(c)(1) should only apply to land which has been acquired in 
trust; not to land which a tribe has acquired in fee. The phrase 
``pursuant to the Department's * * *'' should be added because a tribe 
should not lose its chance to satisfy the criteria in Sec.  
292.12(c)(1) if it acquires land in trust for housing which is not 
intended for gaming and had not been acquired pursuant to the 
procedures for gaming acquisitions. The phrase ``and the tribe * * *'' 
is added to ensure that this paragraph in not used by a tribe which is 
already gaming.
    Response: The recommendation regarding the phrase ``trust land'' 
was adopted in part through use of the term ``newly acquired lands,'' 
clarifying the type of land contemplated under (c). The recommendation 
to exclude trust land used for housing was unnecessary because 
paragraph (c)(2) allows a tribe that already has newly acquired lands, 
to acquire a site for gaming as long as the tribe submits an 
application within 25 years of its restoration. The recommendation to 
qualify (c)(1) with the phrase ``the tribe is not gaming on any other 
trust lands'' was adopted in part and added to (c)(2). The definition 
of newly acquired lands includes tribal land acquired in trust but does 
not include tribal fee land.
    General Comments on Sec.  292.12:
    One comment suggested that the rule specify what role the NIGC 
plays in the restored lands opinion. One comment stated that there is 
nothing in the rule that discusses the process the BIA will use to make 
restored lands opinions.
    Response: These comments are addressed with the addition of Sec.  
292.3 discussing the application process.
    One comment suggested adding a geographical nexus requirement to 
Sec.  292.12 in addition to the historical and temporal requirements.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted as the regulation's 
requirement of a modern, historical and temporal connection adequately 
implements the policy goals of IGRA.
    One comment suggested that the regulations should require a tribe 
to acquire their former reservation land if it is available. One 
comment suggested that tribes should not be permitted to acquire 
restored lands if they were already compensated for such lands by some 
other means.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because they do 
not have a basis in IGRA.
    One comment suggested making the language in Sec. Sec.  292.11 & 
292.12 consistent with Sec.  292.6.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted. The Department made 
efforts to make these sections consistent where uniformity is 
necessary.

Subpart C--Secretarial Determinations and Governor's Concurrence

Section 292.13 When can a tribe conduct gaming activities on lands that 
do not qualify under one of the exceptions?

    This section was renamed ``When can a tribe conduct gaming 
activities on newly acquired lands that do not qualify under one of the 
exceptions in subpart B of this part?''
    Several comments suggested restricting the scope of consultation 
required under paragraph (b) by deleting ``local officials, including 
officials of nearby tribes'' thereby preventing excessive complication 
of the application process and promoting tribal self-determination.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the statute 
requires consultation with nearby tribes and local officials, 25 U.S.C. 
2718(b)(1)(A).
    One comment recommended that no land be taken into trust without 
the consent of the State and the affected county.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the comment 
raises issues pertaining to 25 CFR part 151--Land Acquisitions. 
Nonetheless, section 2719 of IRGA only requires the Governor's 
concurrence. Since this section of IGRA requires consultation with the 
Governor, local officials and nearby tribes, but only specifies the 
concurrence of the Governor, Congress has implicitly rejected the need 
for concurrence by other officials.
    One comment suggested that citizen input and State legislative 
participation should be included in the Secretary's determination that 
the casino will not be detrimental to the community. One comment, on 
behalf of a concerned citizen, opposed the Secretary's authority to 
permit gambling in communities without her input.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because the 
regulations already require consultation with appropriate State and 
local officials, consistent with the statutory

[[Page 29368]]

language. Further, there are various opportunities for local input in 
the process, depending on which exception is at issue.
    One comment suggested that the regulations impose additional 
restrictions on gaming on lands acquired after October 17, 1988.
    Response: The regulations were designed to conform to and interpret 
section 2719 of IGRA; every effort was made to stay consistent in that 
regard. Additional restrictions are inconsistent with 25 U.S.C. 2719.
    One comment suggested that paragraph (b) use the phrase ``nearby 
Indian tribes'' and paragraph (d) read ``The Governor of the [S]tate in 
which the gaming establishment is to be located concurs in the 
Secretary's Determination'' in order to conform to IGRA.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and language was modified 
accordingly.
    One comment stated that the two-part Secretarial Determination 
exception cannot be interpreted as requiring a tribe to have an 
ancestral tie to the lands they seek to acquire.
    Response: The two-part Secretarial Determination does not require a 
tribe to have an ancestral tie to the lands they seek to acquire.

Section 292.14 Where must a tribe file an application for a Secretarial 
Determination?

    The Department did not receive any comments regarding this section.

Section 292.15 May a tribe apply for a Secretarial Determination for 
lands not yet held in trust?

    One comment stated that requiring a tribe to file its application 
for a two-part Secretarial Determination at the same time as its land-
into-trust application precludes the tribe from using the land they 
have placed into trust for economic development. Accordingly, the 
comment suggested modifying Sec.  292.15 in light of this concern.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The requirements in 
Sec.  292.15 address land that is not yet held in trust. The section 
does not address a tribe's existing trust land.

Application Contents

Section 292.16 What must an application for a Secretarial Determination 
contain?

    Several comments suggested that a tribe be required to submit only 
the information required under Sec.  292.16, paragraphs (a) through (d) 
at the time it submits its land-into-trust application. The information 
required by Sec.  292.16 paragraphs (e) and (f) could be submitted as 
the information becomes available.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
application for a Secretarial Determination must include all of the 
information in Sec.  292.16 for the application to be complete.
    One comment suggested that an additional requirement in paragraph 
(d) be added to require the tribe to submit ``evidence of an aboriginal 
or significant historical connection to the land, including cultural 
ties based upon actual inhabitance.'' This would, according to the 
commenter, bring the regulation into conformance with section 2719.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is beyond 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment observed that, throughout the regulations, 
``application'' is used to refer both to the tribe's initial written 
request and to the subsequent application package developed by the BIA 
Regional Office for submission to the Secretary, creating confusion.
    Response: In consideration of the comment, changes were made 
throughout the regulations accordingly.
    Several comments suggested striking paragraphs (d) and (k).
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because paragraphs 
(d) and (k) inform the decision making process.
    One comment suggested striking paragraphs (j) and (k) because these 
documents are not site specific and are either already on file with the 
BIA or do not apply.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because paragraphs 
(j) and (k) inform the analysis. The word ``Any'' was deleted from the 
beginning of former paragraph (k) and the words ``if any'' were added 
to modified paragraph (l) for clarification.
    Several comments noted that, while the Regional Director is 
required by Sec.  292.20(a)(2) to provide officials with information 
regarding the proposed scope of the gaming, Sec. Sec.  292.16-292.18 do 
not require the applicant tribe to submit this information.
    Response: In response to these comments, language was added in (j) 
regarding the proposed scope of gaming and the size of the proposed 
gaming establishment.

Section 292.17 How must an application describe the benefits of a 
proposed gaming establishment to the tribe and its members?

    Several comments suggested changing ``benefits'' in the title of 
Sec.  292.17 to ``impacts.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. The words ``and 
impacts'' were added to the title of Sec.  292.17. The section was 
renamed ``How must an application describe the benefits and impacts of 
a proposed gaming establishment to the tribe and its members?''
    Several comments suggested that paragraph (f) require a more 
specific identification of adverse impacts.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because an adverse 
impacts analysis is fact specific and will vary depending on the given 
facts and circumstances.
    One comment suggested that Sec.  292.17 require consideration of 
land use, development alternatives to gaming, whether the proposed 
project is consistent with the tribe's economic needs (if any), and how 
fulfillment of such needs will be balanced against off-reservation 
environmental impacts.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because development 
alternatives and environmental impact are addressed in the National 
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.
    One comment noted that paragraph (i) is a new requirement not 
previously contained in the discussion draft circulated prior to the 
publication of the proposed regulation.
    Response: The concern raised by the commenter does not violate any 
standards or procedures.
    Several comments suggested that paragraph (h) be amended to read 
``* * * or holds other contractual rights to cause the land to be 
transferred to the United States, or to the [t]ribe.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary. The first clause of paragraph (h) covers the commenter's 
concern.
    One comment suggested that ``if any'' be stricken from paragraph 
(i) to require the applicant tribe to establish that it 
``aboriginally'' used and occupied the land where it wishes to build a 
gaming establishment.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because historical 
connections are not mandatory under IGRA for purposes of this subpart 
of the regulations.
    Several comments suggested striking, in their entirety, paragraphs 
(a), (e), (g), and (j), and striking ``from the proposed

[[Page 29369]]

uses of the increased tribal income'' from paragraph (d).
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because all of the 
paragraphs are necessary in order to determine what is in the tribe's 
best interest.
    One comment suggested striking ``and the tribe'' from paragraph 
(a), as it would be ``voluminous and time consuming.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the words 
``and the tribe'' must be included in the paragraph in order to conduct 
a thorough analysis under the two-part determination.
    Several comments suggested replacing ``facility'' in paragraph (j), 
subparagraph (3) with ``establishment.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted, and the word 
``facility'' was replaced with the word ``establishment.''
    One comment suggested adding ``Any information provided within the 
application that is of a commercial or financial nature shall be 
protected from release to the public pursuant to the exemptions of the 
Freedom of Information Act [(''FOIA'')], 5 U.S.C. 522(b)(4).''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the FOIA 
provisions that protect commercial and financial information and the 
corresponding procedures stand on their own and need not be 
specifically referenced in these regulations.
    One comment suggested requiring the information provided under 
Sec.  292.17 be shared with State and local governments, who should be 
accorded the opportunity to respond to the information supplied by the 
tribe.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the Secretary 
can evaluate the financial information without having comments or 
analysis by the State or local governments. Nevertheless, the 
Department will provide financial information to the Governor under 
Sec.  292.22 if there is a favorable Secretarial Determination.

Section 292.18 What information must an application contain on 
detrimental impacts to the surrounding community?

    Several comments argued that tribal gaming by an out-of-State tribe 
is per se detrimental to the community.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. While the 
regulations allow for a finding that gaming by an out-of-State tribe is 
detrimental to the community, such a finding will be made on a case-by-
case basis.
    Several comments suggested that ``detrimental to the surrounding 
community'' in paragraph (c) should be defined to consider the adverse 
impacts on self-sufficiency and economic development of other tribes in 
the State.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
definition of ``surrounding community'' already includes Indian tribes. 
Extending consideration to other tribes in the State goes beyond the 
Department's interpretation of the statute.
    One comment raised the concern that Sec.  292.18 did not limit the 
Secretary's discretion to consider ``detrimental information'' 
regarding non-Indian gaming interests.
    Response: The Secretary can consider detrimental information 
regarding non-Indian gaming interests; it is considered within 
paragraph (c). While such interests can be considered, they are limited 
to surrounding community consistent with section 2719.
    One comment suggested it was premature to require an environmental 
assessment (EA) or environmental impact statement (EIS) before the 
Secretary makes his decision.
    Response: An EA or EIS are products of the NEPA process. The 
Secretary must have the results of the NEPA analysis in order to 
consider whether or not there is detriment to the surrounding 
community.
    Several comments proposed the following subsection: ``An analysis 
by a qualified traffic engineer of the traffic impacts on the 
surrounding community and the mitigation measures necessary to 
alleviate the traffic impacts which would be caused by the proposed 
gaming establishment.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary; it is implicit in (a) and (b).
    One comment recommended that the regulation specify that 
``surrounding community'' includes communities across State lines.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is not 
necessary. The definition of surrounding community is defined by 
mileage, and is not limited by State boundaries.
    Several comments suggested that paragraph (e) implied that the 
treatment program rather than compulsive gambling is a detrimental 
impact, and that there are no detrimental impacts to the surrounding 
community from compulsive gamblers who are not enrolled in treatment 
programs. It was suggested that paragraph (e) be changed to read, 
``Costs of compulsive gambling attributable to the proposed gaming 
establishment, including the cost of treatment programs and the primary 
and secondary social costs attributable to compulsive gamblers enrolled 
and not enrolled in treatment programs.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part, and (e) was 
revised in order to clarify that the potential detrimental impact is 
any anticipated costs of treatment programs.
    One comment suggested striking ``if any'' from paragraph (d).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the words 
``if any'' do not appear in paragraph (d) of this section.
    Several comments suggested amending paragraph (c) to read, 
``Impacts on the economic development, income, and employment of the 
surrounding community, including any significant impacts on the income 
and employment generated by Indian gaming of nearby Indian tribes.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because tribes are 
already included in ``surrounding community.''
    Several comments suggested adding further specificity to the 
information that is required in the application and set forth in 
paragraphs (a) through (f) of Sec.  292.18.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted because the 
regulations, as written, provide sufficient specificity.
    Several comments suggested striking paragraphs (d) and (e).
    Response: The recommendation was not adopted because paragraphs (d) 
and (e) are required, according to the Department's definition and 
understanding of detriment.
    Several comments suggested amending paragraph (a) to add a proviso 
``if required pursuant to NEPA'' following the reference to an EA or an 
EIS.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and paragraph (a) was 
modified accordingly.
    One comment suggested striking from paragraph (a) `` e.g. an 
Environmental Assessment * * * Statement (EIS).''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the examples 
provide useful guidance.
    One comment suggested striking paragraph (f) to give tribes 
discretion to include, rather than the Secretary discretion to mandate, 
any additional information.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because a well 
informed Secretary will promote sound decision making.
    One comment suggested amending paragraph (a) to read, ``Information 
regarding environmental impacts and plans for mitigating detrimental 
impacts on the surrounding community * * *'' to conform to statutory 
language.

[[Page 29370]]

    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the NEPA uses 
``adverse.''
    One comment noted that ``social structure'' in paragraph (b) is 
vague and undefined.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the term 
``social structure'' is necessary in order to interpret the statute.

Consultation

Section 292.19 How will the Regional Director conduct the consultation 
process?

    Several comments suggested that 60 days was not a sufficient time 
for State and local officials to collect the necessary information to 
prepare a consultation letter.
    Response: The State and local officials are not being asked to 
prepare a consultation letter, they respond to the Regional Director's 
letter. The relevant information is available at the time when the 
regulations require a consultation letter and therefore 60 days is 
adequate time for State and local officials to comment.
    Several comments recommended that the Regional Director be required 
to notify appropriate officials if the tribe addresses or resolves any 
issue pursuant to paragraph (c)(2), and that such officials should be 
accorded a reasonable time to respond.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because such a 
procedure would inject unnecessary delay into the process.
    One comment requested that the Department exempt from the 
requirements of Sec.  292.19 pending applications that have already 
completed the required consultations with the surrounding community 
under the current checklist procedures.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. We are not including 
a general exemption in the regulations, but the Department will make a 
case-by-case determination whether pending applications have completed 
the necessary consultation.
    One comment suggested the 25-mile radius for tribes to be included 
in the consultation process be expanded to 100 miles.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted as the focus on 
section 2719 is the surrounding community.
    One comment suggested including the applicant tribe in the Sec.  
292.19 consultation process.
    Response: This comment was not adopted because the tribe is already 
included in the process in paragraph (c) where the tribe can respond to 
issues raised in the responses.
    Several comments suggested that, ``Citizens within a 50-mile radius 
(Public notices posted)'' be added to the requirements of paragraph (a) 
so as to solicit comments from the community. One comment suggested 
rewriting paragraph (b), in its entirety, with a focus on notice 
requirements.
    Response: These recommendations were not adopted. The Department 
consults with appropriate State and local officials and nearby tribes. 
Therefore, the Department is not amending the regulations to solicit 
citizen comments directly. It is most appropriate that citizen comments 
funnel through appropriate State, local and tribal officials. Also, 
public comments are provided for in the NEPA process.
    One comment suggested that 30 days was a sufficient comment period.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 60-day 
comment period provides a balance between those wanting a longer period 
and those wanting a shorter time for comment.
    One comment suggested changing ``nearby tribes'' in paragraph 
(a)(2) to the previously-defined ``nearby Indian tribes.''
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and the paragraph was 
modified accordingly.
    Several comments suggested that the BIA be required to meet with 
local officials throughout the acquisition process and that the comment 
period was not a legitimate consultation process.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
Secretarial Determination in section 2719 is not a negotiation process. 
Creating additional opportunities for back-and-forth is unnecessary, 
causes delay and is inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested that the term ``consultation comments'' in 
paragraph (c)(1) was unclear and should be defined to include any 
comments received from residents and businesses.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted and corresponding edits 
were made in order to clarify the paragraph.
    Several comments suggested that officials of whom consultation is 
requested have access to information provided by the applicant pursuant 
to Sec.  292.17.
    Response: Consistent with the protection Congress affords 
financial, commercial or proprietary information under the FOIA, this 
recommendation was not adopted.
    Several comments suggested requiring the information provided under 
Sec.  292.18 be shared with State and local governments, who should be 
accorded the opportunity to respond to the information supplied by the 
tribe.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the requested 
process would add unnecessary delay at this stage of the process.

Section 292.20 What information must the consultation letter include?

    One comment considered it ``absurd'' to require local communities 
and nearby tribes, rather than the applicant tribe, to provide funding 
to mitigate problems that might emerge from the proposed casino and to 
propose programs to address compulsive gambling (paragraph (b)).
    Response: This comment misconstrues paragraph (b)(5). In order to 
clarify the paragraph, it was modified to make clear that the 
consultation letter is only requesting information regarding the 
anticipated costs, if any, of treatment programs. The paragraph does 
not consider the issue of who will bear such costs.
    One comment suggested that paragraph (b)(4) be changed to, 
``Reasonable estimates of costs of impacts * * *'' to eliminate the 
implication that all costs will be reimbursed by the applicant tribe.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. The word 
``anticipated'' was inserted wherever necessary.
    Several comments suggested that paragraph (b)(4) be changed to, 
``Costs of impacts to the surrounding community, including nearby 
Indian tribes* * *'' and that the tribes be consulted in this 
determination.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because ``nearby 
Indian tribes'' are included in the definition of surrounding 
community.
    One comment suggested amending paragraph (b)(6) to read, ``Any 
other information that may assist the Secretary in determining whether 
gaming is or is not detrimental to the surrounding community'' to avoid 
sounding conclusory.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted.
    One comment suggested adding, ``such as the size of the proposed 
gaming establishment'' to paragraph (a)(3).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the proposed 
language is already included in the paragraph.
    One comment suggested striking paragraph (b)(4) and (5).
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
paragraphs are necessary to the evaluation.

[[Page 29371]]

    One comment suggested that paragraph (b) should not apply to 
entities that do not intend to file a protest against the proposed 
establishment.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is not 
necessary. The paragraph does not compel recipients to comment.
    One comment suggested that the consultation letter and the 
published notice should specify the studies (including one on crime and 
one on impacts on existing gaming) and provide the Web site where these 
studies can be viewed.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary. The information is routinely available should an 
individual decide that they want such data.

Evaluation and Concurrence

Section 292.21 How will the Secretary evaluate a proposed gaming 
establishment?

    Several comments suggested that the regulations should provide that 
lands ``far from the tribe's existing reservation will be disfavored 
for taking into trust for the purposes of gaming.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it refers to 
an issue that is considered when the Secretary takes lands into trust 
under 25 CFR part 151.
    Several comments suggested that the Secretary, when making his 
determination pursuant to paragraph (b), must not consider the 
financial effects of competition on other Indian or non-Indian gaming 
establishments, in accordance with the Congressional intent of IGRA.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the Secretary 
does not necessarily include in the analysis the financial effects of 
competition on other gaming establishments; however, the Secretary does 
examine detrimental effect on the surrounding community and nearby 
tribes, including detrimental financial effects.
    Several comments suggested that all appropriate State, local, and 
nearby tribal officials should also be notified of a disapproval 
pursuant to paragraph (c).
    Response: Because of restructuring, this comment addresses Sec.  
292.21(b). This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary. Interested parties can make individual inquiries if there 
is a need.
    One comment suggested that community disapproval of a casino should 
require the Secretary to disapprove an application.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is not 
consistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested rewriting Sec.  292.21 to read:

    (b) The Secretary will consider all the information submitted or 
developed under Sec.  292.18 and all the documentation received 
under Sec.  292.19 in evaluating the proposed gaming establishment's 
detrimental impacts on the host-community and surrounding counties. 
(c) If the Secretary disapproves of the gaming proposal, the 
Secretary will inform the tribe and set forth the reasons for the 
disapproval. (d) If the Secretary approves of the gaming proposal, 
the Secretary will proceed under Sec.  292.22.

    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the changes 
are unnecessary. The paragraph, as amended, is sufficient to address 
the commenter's concerns.
    One comment suggested adding a new paragraph:

    The Secretary will make a presumption that the proposed project 
will have a detrimental effect on the surrounding community if the 
proposal negatively impacts the stewardship, economic development, 
or cultural preservation plans of a federally recognized tribe that 
does have a strong ancestral or cultural nexus to the lands in 
question. That presumption may be overcome only by compelling 
evidence.

    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is beyond 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment recommended that the regulation establish specific 
standards by which the Secretary must abide in making his two-part 
determination.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
regulations provide the necessary procedures and standards for the 
Secretary to make a decision.
    One comment suggested that any findings must be supported by 
substantial evidence in the record and that the findings include the 
evidence that is contained in the record.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
unnecessary. Including a standard of proof adds a layer of potential 
ambiguity to the analysis.

Section 292.22 How does the Secretary request the Governor's 
concurrence?

    Several comments suggested that the Governor's retention of a 
silent veto power over the proposal (paragraph (d)) is inconsistent 
with the Congressional intent of IGRA, and that the State must 
therefore be required to respond to the tribe's proposal.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
Governor's silent veto is consistent with IGRA.
    Several comments suggested that a lack of response from the 
Governor should be interpreted as a concurrence.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because there is no 
statutory basis on which to create a regulation that says a Governor's 
silence means concurrence.
    One comment recommended that the Governor and the State legislature 
must concur in the decision.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because IGRA 
specifically identifies the Governor and not the State; this provision 
is distinguished from other sections of IGRA that specifically mention 
the State.
    One comment suggested that, if the Governor does not respond to a 
request for concurrence within the established period, the tribe should 
be permitted to reinstate the findings of fact within a reasonable 
period of time or, in the alternative, the tribe can provide 
information to supplement the material provided under Sec. Sec.  
292.16-292.18.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. As a courtesy, 
however, the Department will notify the tribe when the time period has 
passed without a response from the Governor.
    One comment disapproved of the Governor's power to approve or veto 
the proposal.
    Response: The power is specifically detailed in IGRA.
    One comment suggested replacing, ``makes a favorable Secretarial 
Determination'' in paragraph (a) with, ``approves the tribal gaming 
proposal.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is an 
unnecessary change.
    One comment suggested striking paragraph (b), subparagraph (2), 
because the regulations do not require that the Governor be given 
notice of the intent to place a gaming facility on land already held in 
trust.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
premised on a misreading of the statute and it is no longer applicable 
because the section was reorganized.
    One comment suggested amending paragraph (b), subparagraph (1), to 
read, ``The land is not eligible for gaming pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 
2719(b)(1)(A)'' so as to not preclude gaming pursuant to the exceptions 
set forth in 25 U.S.C. 2719(b)(1)(B).
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. An additional 
section, now Sec.  292.23, was added to the regulations in order to 
clarify what happens if the Governor does not affirmatively concur with 
the Secretarial Determination.

[[Page 29372]]

    Several comments suggested that the 18-month period is too long.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the one-year 
time period with a possibility of a six-month extension is reasonable.

Section 292.23 Can the public review the application for a Secretarial 
Determination?

    This section was renamed ``What happens if the Governor does not 
affirmatively concur with the Secretarial Determination?'' and 
reorganized.
    One comment suggested clarifying former Sec.  292.23 by indicating 
whether a formal FOIA request must be filed to review the application 
or if the application is immediately available, subject to the 
limitations on disclosure in the FOIA, the Privacy Act, and the Trade 
Secrets Act, upon request.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is 
implicit that the application is available for review.
    One comment suggested replacing, ``the tribe's application * * * 
over the land'' with the following:

    The local BIA agency or Regional Office will provide a minimum 
of two copies of the tribe's application and all supporting 
documents for public review to: (1) Governor of the [S]tate's 
office; (2) Public County Office within the proposed host-community; 
and (3) the tribe's application and all material will also be 
available at the local BIA agency or Regional Office having 
administrative jurisdiction over the land.

    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
modification is unnecessary.
    Several comments suggested that Sec.  292.23 explicitly provide 
that the BIA will consult with the applicant tribe regarding what 
information should be protected from disclosure.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted; however, it will be 
suggested that the tribe submit a suggested redacted version of its 
documentation along with the full application, in order to speed the 
Department's identification and review of the material the tribe 
considers protected from disclosure.
    One comment stated that Sec.  292.23's public review provisions 
are, ``inadequate in the digital age.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
provisions set forth in this section are adequate to provide public 
review.

Section 292.24 Do information collections in this part have Office of 
Management and Budget approval?

    This section was renamed--``Can the public review the Secretarial 
Determination?'' and reorganized.
    One comment suggested that former Sec.  292.24 is in violation of 
the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), which requires the agency to include 
in its burden estimate all collections of information that will be 
solicited (even if voluntary) by ``ignoring'' the financial burden 
imposed on State and local governments and private entities.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because this section 
is compliant with the PRA. The information collection requirements, 
along with a corresponding comment period, were published in the 
Federal Register on January 19, 2007. The requirements were approved by 
the OMB on February 27, 2007 and expire on February 28, 2010.

General Comments on the Section 2719 Regulations

    Several comments suggested adding a so-called, ``grandfather 
clause'' in the regulations. For example, one comment suggested adding 
the following language: ``This regulation shall apply prospectively and 
existing Indian gaming on Indian lands recognized as eligible for 
gaming by the Secretary, the National Indian Gaming Commission, 
Congress or a Federal court shall not be disturbed.'' Some comments 
suggested waiving the regulations for complete applications that have 
been actively reviewed. Other comments suggested the regulations only 
apply to applications received after a certain date. Finally, several 
comments suggested that the regulations should apply to all pending 
applications with an opportunity to amend.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in part. A new Sec.  
292.26 was added in order to address these issues. During the course of 
implementing IGRA section 20, the Department and the NIGC have issued a 
number of legal opinions to address the ambiguities left by Congress 
and provide legal advice for agency decisionmakers, or in some cases, 
for the interested parties facing an unresolved legal issue. These 
legal opinions typically have been issued by the Department's Office of 
the Solicitor or the NIGC's Office of General Counsel. In some cases, 
the Department or the NIGC subsequently relied on the legal opinion to 
take some final agency action. In those cases, section 292.26(a) makes 
clear that these regulations will have no retroactive effect to alter 
any final agency decision made prior to the effective date of these 
regulations. In other cases, however, the Department or the NIGC may 
have issued a legal opinion without any subsequent final agency action. 
It is expected that in those cases, the tribe and perhaps other parties 
may have relied on the legal opinion to make investments into the 
subject property or taken some other actions that were based on their 
understanding that the land was eligible for gaming. Therefore, section 
292.26(b) states that these regulations also shall not apply to 
applicable agency actions taken after the effective date of these 
regulations when the Department or the NIGC has issued a written 
opinion regarding the applicability of 25 U.S.C. 2719 before the 
effective date of these regulations. In this way, the Federal 
Government may be able to follow through with its prior legal opinions 
and take final agency actions consistent with those opinions, even if 
these regulations now have created a conflict. However, these 
regulations will not affect the Department's or the NIGC's ability to 
qualify, modify or withdraw its prior legal opinions. In addition, 
these regulations do not alter the fact that the legal opinions are 
advisory in nature and thus do not legally bind the persons vested with 
the authority to make final agency decisions.
    One comment suggested including the Checklist for Gaming 
Acquisitions Gaming-Related Acquisitions and IGRA Section 2719 
Determinations, in the regulations.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. To the extent that 
the Checklist is inconsistent with the regulations, the regulations 
control. Matters in the Checklist that are not covered by the 
regulations, and are not otherwise inconsistent with the regulations, 
remain in effect.
    One comment suggested that the regulations include a provision that 
says an application is still eligible for consideration even if a tribe 
is unable to include all the itemized information in the application.
    Response: In order to promote informed decisionmaking, this 
recommendation was not adopted.
    One comment suggested that the regulations clearly define the role 
of NIGC.
    Response: Other than the changes to Sec.  292.3, this 
recommendation was not adopted. The roles and responsibilities of the 
NIGC cannot be addressed by the Department of the Interior regulations 
and instead must be defined by that agency's own regulations.
    One comment suggested adding an evidentiary standard to subpart B 
stating that the burden rests on the applicant tribe to demonstrate 
that a section 2719 exception applies.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. It is understood 
that the burden is on the applicant tribe to establish its eligibility 
for an exception.

[[Page 29373]]

These regulations establish the standards that the applicant must meet.
    One comment suggested that subpart B be revised to provide clarity 
and consistency by specifying which agency or official will issue 
opinions covered by Sec.  292.4.
    Response: This recommendation was adopted in the revised Sec.  
292.3.
    One comment suggested that the regulations indicate what 
constitutes final agency action and that the regulations specify what 
constitutes a record and what is the appeals process, if any.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The standard 
provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act apply.
    Several comments suggested that the regulations be rejected in 
their entirety because they promote ``casino shopping.''
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The standards 
included in these regulations will limit the concerns addressed by the 
commenter consistent with the existing provisions of IGRA.
    One comment suggested that if the local community does not want a 
casino, that should be the end of the inquiry.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because IGRA requires 
only a Governor's concurrence, not a local community concurrence.
    Several comments suggested that there be a role for public comment 
and participation in the initial reservation and restored lands to 
restored tribes processes.
    Response: Unlike the exception in IGRA section 2719(b)(1)(A), the 
exceptions in section 2719(b)(1)(B) do not reference an opportunity for 
public comment. Because section 2719(b)(1)(B) presents a fact-based 
inquiry, it is unnecessary to include a requirement for public comment 
in the regulations. Nonetheless, there are opportunities for public 
comment in other parts of the administrative process--for example, in 
the process to take the land in trust and during the NEPA review 
process. Although the regulations do not provide a formal opportunity 
for public comment under subpart B of these regulations, the public may 
submit written comments that are specific to a particular lands 
opinion. Submissions may be sent to the appropriate agency that is 
identified in Sec.  292.3.
    One comment suggested including a ``fair-play'' clause to ensure 
that speculators do not use tribes and that there are no 
misrepresentations in the process.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is beyond 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested that cities be given advance notice of gaming 
related trust land requests and that there be a good faith requirement 
that the parties negotiate the issues before the application is 
accepted.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is beyond 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested that the Department should consult with any 
other tribe that can show historical ties to a particular site.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted. The Department will 
consult with a nearby Indian tribe at which time it can explain its 
significant historical connection to the land, and show any detrimental 
impact on that tribe's traditional cultural connection to the land.
    One comment suggested that tribes be required to submit development 
agreements.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because it is beyond 
the scope of the regulations and inconsistent with IGRA.
    One comment suggested that the regulations comply with the mandates 
of Adams v. U.S., 319 U.S. 3212 (1943) and U.S. v. Fox, 94 U.S. 315 
(1876) regarding State cession of jurisdiction. The comment argues that 
State legislatures must give permission to cede jurisdiction to the 
Federal Government.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the comment 
raises issues pertaining to 25 CFR part 151--Land Acquisitions, not 
IGRA.
    Several comments suggested that the regulations define ``gaming'' 
and the scope of gaming, i.e., the range of proposals to which the 
regulations would apply.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted as outside the scope 
of these regulations.
    Several comments suggested adding a definition for ``detrimental to 
the surrounding community'' and including the standards by which the 
Department will make its decision regarding detrimental to the 
surrounding community.
    Response: This recommendation was not adopted because the 
Department will evaluate detriment on a case-by-case basis based on the 
information developed in the application and consultation process.
    One comment suggested that the Department of the Interior is 
without authority to issue these regulations since IGRA grants NIGC 
rule making authority and that only the NIGC has authority to make 
decisions regarding what constitutes Indian lands under IGRA.
    Response: The NIGC's rule making authority is not to the exclusion 
of the Department of the Interior. Section 2719 specifically references 
the Secretary of the Interior.

Procedural Requirements

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Order 12866)

    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that this 
rule is significant. OMB's guidance on Executive Order 12866 requires 
that a cost-benefit analysis be done for significant rules and that it 
contain three elements. These elements are a statement of record, an 
examination of alternative approaches, and an analysis of costs and 
benefits.
    The anticipated expenses or costs to the public or to the tribes 
who submit applications for gaming on land acquired after October 17, 
1988 will be more than $100 million, therefore the rule is an 
economically significant regulatory action.
    The intent of Executive Order 12866 is to provide decision makers 
with appropriate information to determine that a regulatory action 
imposing costs and yielding benefits, or otherwise having the effects 
sought by authorizing legislation, is both needed and is economically 
justified.
    The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 (IGRA) generally prohibits 
gaming on land acquired in trust after October 17, 1988, but provides 
several exceptions. Executive Order 12866 applies only to gaming on 
land under the general exception, which requires a two-part 
determination by the Secretary that gaming on the land would be in the 
best interest of the tribe and its members, and not detrimental to the 
surrounding community.
    No cost-benefit analysis is necessary for gaming on newly acquired 
trust land under the exceptions for lands located within or contiguous 
to the boundaries of the reservation (former reservation in Oklahoma, 
or last recognized reservation for tribes outside Oklahoma that have no 
reservation) of the Indian tribe on October 17, 1988; or lands that are 
taken into trust as part of a settlement of a land claim, the initial 
reservation of an Indian tribe acknowledged by the Secretary under the 
Federal acknowledgment process, or the restoration of lands for an 
Indian tribe that is restored to Federal recognition. Tribes eligible 
under these exceptions are permitted to game on

[[Page 29374]]

lands acquired in trust after October 17, 1988. For these exceptions 
the rule establishes regulations for the Secretary in establishing 
eligibility. Establishing eligibility is a factual analysis and 
decision that incurs no cost or benefits.
    This rule establishes regulations that will impose costs on the 
tribe, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, State and local governments, and 
the public in the expectation that gaming revenues will increase for 
the benefit of the tribe, employees, and the surrounding community.
    Tribes wishing to game on land acquired in trust after October 17, 
1988 that are not excepted will need to make an application to the 
Secretary for a two-part determination. The Secretary of the Interior 
and Federal employees to whom the Secretary's authorities under IGRA 
are or will be delegated will incur costs for preparing and reviewing 
the application.
    These regulations establish requirements for the submission, review 
and approval of a land acquisition application and a two-part 
determination in a timely manner. The anticipated expenses or costs to 
the public or to the tribes who submit applications will be 
substantial. Tribes will be required to gather and submit information 
to the Secretary that substantiates both parts of the two-part 
determination. The cost of application will vary widely for gaming 
projects of different size and complexity from two man-years to five 
man-years, or more for each application.
    IGRA requires the Secretary to consult with the Indian tribe and 
appropriate State, and local officials, including officials of other 
nearby Indian tribes in making a two-part determination. Responding to 
the consultation will impose costs on State, local, and other tribal 
governments. In aggregate the cost is estimated at one to two man-years 
for each application.
    Compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (``NEPA'') 
will be required. While NEPA documents are Federal documents to be used 
by decision makers in taking major Federal actions, the cost associated 
with preparing the studies will be primarily a cost of the tribe. 
Depending on the NEPA document required, preparation is expected to 
cost between 4 and 20 man-years, or more, and the BIA will expend from 
one to three man-years reviewing and supplementing the studies for each 
application.
    NEPA requires the consideration of input from all parties on the 
expected impact on the human environment of the proposed major Federal 
action. The cost to the public and interested parties will vary widely. 
For controversial actions interested parties may prepare parallel 
studies that are nearly equal in scope to the NEPA document, so the 
average estimated cost may be one-half the cost of NEPA compliance, 
therefore from 2 man-years to 10 man-years for each application.
    A determination that results in a gaming facility on after-acquired 
land will result in costs to the surrounding community for roads, 
police and fire services, reduction of property tax rolls, government 
services, education, housing, and problem gambling. The NEPA document 
will address the mitigation of significant impacts. The cost of impacts 
that are not significant will be borne by the surrounding community at 
an unknown level.
    On September 21, 2007, the Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs 
issued a Checklist for Gaming Acquisitions, Gaming-related 
Acquisitions, and IGRA Section 20 Determinations. The Checklist 
provides a systematic format for Regional Directors to evaluate 
specified factors for a two-part determination.
    The benefits of gaming on newly acquired land will be for the 
tribe, employees, State and local government, nearby businesses, and 
local economic conditions. Jobs created by a gaming establishment 
generally vary from 500 to 5,000. According to economic studies, the 
new employee payroll spent locally creates secondary jobs at nearby 
businesses from 75 to 750. Housing demand by new employees increases 
local property tax collections by amounts that vary widely depending on 
the existing stock of dwellings and the tax rate. Income tax 
collections on the new jobs increase depending on State income tax 
rates. Studies have shown that unemployment and welfare rolls decrease 
in the counties surrounding new gaming facilities, with the benefit 
variable depending on existing unemployment and welfare rates. The net 
gaming revenue that is available to the tribe will vary depending on 
the location and size of the new gaming facility, and is expected to be 
from $5,000,000 to $200,000,000.
    Currently, there are approximately 225 Indian tribes engaged in 
class II (bingo) and class III (casino) gaming. Although IGRA permits a 
tribe to acquire off-reservation land for gaming, it does not require 
tribes to do so. The cost of an application is completely optional and 
avoidable for a tribe. Each applicant tribe may evaluate the high cost 
of applying to game on off-reservation after-acquired trust land 
against the expected net gaming revenue to determine whether to incur 
the cost of complying with this rule.
    The alternative considered was continuing to review applications 
using the Checklist. The costs and benefits using the Checklist are 
essentially the same as under the rule. The alternative was rejected in 
favor of establishing mandatory factors to be used in making a two-part 
determination.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of the Interior certifies that this document will 
not have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small 
entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). 
Indian tribes are not considered to be small entities for the purposes 
of this Act.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA)

    This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small 
Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule:
    (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million 
or more.
    (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for 
consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government 
agencies, or geographic regions.
    (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of 
U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    This rule does not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local or 
tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per 
year. The rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, 
local or tribal government or the private sector. A statement 
containing the information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act 
(2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not required because only Indian tribes may 
conduct gaming activities on land acquired after October 17, 1988, only 
if the land meets the exceptions in section 2719 of IGRA.

Takings Implication Assessment (Executive Order 12630)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12630, the Department has 
determined that this rule does not have significant takings 
implications. The rule does not pertain to the ``taking'' of private 
property interests, nor does it impact private property. A takings 
implication assessment is not required.

[[Page 29375]]

Federalism (Executive Order 13132)

    In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the Department has 
determined that this rule does not have significant Federalism 
implications because it does not substantially and directly affect the 
relationship between the Federal and State governments and does not 
impose costs on States or localities. A Federalism Assessment is not 
required.

Civil Justice Reform (Executive Order 12988)

    This rule complies with the requirements of Executive Order 12988. 
Specifically, this rule:
    (a) Does not unduly burden the judicial system;
    (b) Meets the criteria of section 3(a) requiring that all 
regulations be reviewed to eliminate errors and ambiguity and be 
written to minimize litigation; and
    (c) Meets the criteria of section 3(b)(2) requiring that all 
regulations be written in clear language and contain clear legal 
standards. The rule does not preempt any statute.

National Environmental Policy Act

    The Department has determined that this rule does not constitute a 
major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human 
environment and that no detailed statement is required under the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The information collection has been reviewed and cleared by the 
Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and 
Budget under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, as amended. The 
collection has been assigned the tracking number of OMB Control Number 
1076-0158. The collection of information is unique for each tribe even 
though each submission addresses the requirements found in Sec.  
292.16.
    All information is collected in the tribe's application. 
Respondents submit information in order to obtain a benefit. Each 
response is estimated to take 1,000 hours to review instructions, 
search existing data sources, gather and maintain necessary data, and 
prepare in format for submission. We anticipate that two responses will 
be submitted annually for an annual burden of 2,000 hours.

Consultation With Indian Tribes (Executive Order 13175)

    Under the criteria in Executive Order 13175, we have conducted 
consultation meetings with tribal leaders regarding the proposed 
regulations in the following locations: Uncasville, Connecticut on 
March 30, 2006; Albuquerque, New Mexico on April 5, 2006; Sacramento, 
California on April 18, 2006 and Minneapolis, Minnesota on April 20, 
2006. A notice of the consultation meetings was published in the 
Federal Register on April 11, 2006 (71 FR 18350). In addition, a draft 
regulation was sent to all tribal leaders in the lower 48 States on 
March 15, 2006, seeking comments on the draft regulation. Numerous 
comments were received by the Department. The Department revised the 
draft regulation in response to written comments and oral comments 
received at the consultation meetings. No action is taken under this 
rule unless a tribe submits an application to acquire land under 
section 2719 of IGRA.

Effects on the Nation's Energy Supply (Executive Order 13211)

    This rule does not have a significant effect on the nation's energy 
supply, distribution, or use as defined by Executive Order 13211.

Information Quality Act

    In developing this rule, we did not conduct or use a study, 
experiment, or survey requiring peer review under the Information 
Quality Act (Pub. L. 106-554).

List of Subjects in 25 CFR Part 292

    Indians--business and finance, Indians--gaming.

0
For reasons stated in the preamble, the Bureau of Indian Affairs amends 
subchapter N, chapter I of title 25 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
to add part 292 to read as follows:

PART 292--GAMING ON TRUST LANDS ACQUIRED AFTER OCTOBER 17, 1988

Subpart A--General Provisions
Sec.
292.1 What is the purpose of this part?
292.2 How are key terms defined in this part?
Subpart B--Exceptions to Prohibition on Gaming on Newly Acquired Lands
292.3 How does a tribe seek an opinion on whether its newly acquired 
lands meet, or will meet, one of the exceptions in this subpart?
292.4 What criteria must newly acquired lands meet under the 
exceptions regarding tribes with and without a reservation?

``Settlement of a Land Claim'' Exception

292.5 When can gaming occur on newly acquired lands under a 
settlement of a land claim?

``Initial Reservation'' Exception

292.6 What must be demonstrated to meet the ``initial reservation'' 
exception?

``Restored Lands'' Exception

292.7 What must be demonstrated to meet the ``restored lands'' 
exception?
292.8 How does a tribe qualify as having been federally recognized?
292.9 How does a tribe show that it lost its government-to-
government relationship?
292.10 How does a tribe qualify as having been restored to Federal 
recognition?
292.11 What are ``restored lands''?
292.12 How does a tribe establish its connection to newly acquired 
lands for the purposes of the ``restored lands'' exception?
Subpart C--Secretarial Determination and Governor's Concurrence
292.13 When can a tribe conduct gaming activities on newly acquired 
lands that do not qualify under one of the exceptions in subpart B 
of this part?
292.14 Where must a tribe file an application for a Secretarial 
Determination?
292.15 May a tribe apply for a Secretarial Determination for lands 
not yet held in trust?

Application Contents

292.16 What must an application for a Secretarial Determination 
contain?
292.17 How must an application describe the benefits and impacts of 
a proposed gaming establishment to the tribe and its members?
292.18 What information must an application contain on detrimental 
impacts to the surrounding community?

Consultation

292.19 How will the Regional Director conduct the consultation 
process?
292.20 What information must the consultation letter include?

Evaluation and Concurrence

292.21 How will the Secretary evaluate a proposed gaming 
establishment?
292.22 How does the Secretary request the Governor's concurrence?
292.23 What happens if the Governor does not affirmatively concur 
with the Secretarial Determination?
292.24 Can the public review the Secretarial Determination?

Information Collection

292.25 Do information collections in this part have Office of 
Management and Budget approval?
Subpart D--Effect of Regulations
292.26 What effect do these regulations have on pending 
applications, final agency decisions and opinions already issued?

    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301, 25 U.S.C. 2, 9, 2719, 43 U.S.C. 1457.

[[Page 29376]]

Subpart A--General Provisions


Sec.  292.1  What is the purpose of this part?

    The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 (IGRA) contains several 
exceptions under which class II or class III gaming may occur on lands 
acquired by the United States in trust for an Indian tribe after 
October 17, 1988, if other applicable requirements of IGRA are met. 
This part contains procedures that the Department of the Interior will 
use to determine whether these exceptions apply.


Sec.  292.2  How are key terms defined in this part?

    For purposes of this part, all terms have the same meaning as set 
forth in the definitional section of IGRA, 25 U.S.C. 2703. In addition, 
the following terms have the meanings given in this section.
    Appropriate State and local officials means the Governor of the 
State and local government officials within a 25-mile radius of the 
proposed gaming establishment.
    BIA means Bureau of Indian Affairs.
    Contiguous means two parcels of land having a common boundary 
notwithstanding the existence of non-navigable waters or a public road 
or right-of-way and includes parcels that touch at a point.
    Former reservation means lands in Oklahoma that are within the 
exterior boundaries of the last reservation that was established by 
treaty, Executive Order, or Secretarial Order for an Oklahoma tribe.
    IGRA means the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, as amended and 
codified at 25 U.S.C. 2701-2721.
    Indian tribe or tribe means any Indian tribe, band, nation, or 
other organized group or community of Indians that is recognized by the 
Secretary as having a government-to-government relationship with the 
United States and is eligible for the special programs and services 
provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as 
Indians, as evidenced by inclusion of the tribe on the list of 
recognized tribes published by the Secretary under 25 U.S.C. 479a-1.
    Land claim means any claim by a tribe concerning the impairment of 
title or other real property interest or loss of possession that:
    (1) Arises under the United States Constitution, Federal common 
law, Federal statute or treaty;
    (2) Is in conflict with the right, or title or other real property 
interest claimed by an individual or entity (private, public, or 
governmental); and
    (3) Either accrued on or before October 17, 1988, or involves lands 
held in trust or restricted fee for the tribe prior to October 17, 
1988.
    Legislative termination means Federal legislation that specifically 
terminates or prohibits the government-to-government relationship with 
an Indian tribe or that otherwise specifically denies the tribe, or its 
members, access to or eligibility for government services.
    Nearby Indian tribe means an Indian tribe with tribal Indian lands 
located within a 25-mile radius of the location of the proposed gaming 
establishment, or, if the tribe has no trust lands, within a 25-mile 
radius of its government headquarters.
    Newly acquired lands means land that has been taken, or will be 
taken, in trust for the benefit of an Indian tribe by the United States 
after October 17, 1988.
    Office of Indian Gaming means the office within the Office of the 
Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs, within the Department of the 
Interior.
    Regional Director means the official in charge of the BIA Regional 
Office responsible for BIA activities within the geographical area 
where the proposed gaming establishment is to be located.
    Reservation means:
    (1) Land set aside by the United States by final ratified treaty, 
agreement, Executive Order, Proclamation, Secretarial Order or Federal 
statute for the tribe, notwithstanding the issuance of any patent;
    (2) Land of Indian colonies and rancherias (including rancherias 
restored by judicial action) set aside by the United States for the 
permanent settlement of the Indians as its homeland;
    (3) Land acquired by the United States to reorganize adult Indians 
pursuant to statute; or
    (4) Land acquired by a tribe through a grant from a sovereign, 
including pueblo lands, which is subject to a Federal restriction 
against alienation.
    Secretarial Determination means a two-part determination that a 
gaming establishment on newly acquired lands:
    (1) Would be in the best interest of the Indian tribe and its 
members; and
    (2) Would not be detrimental to the surrounding community.
    Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior or authorized 
representative.
    Significant historical connection means the land is located within 
the boundaries of the tribe's last reservation under a ratified or 
unratified treaty, or a tribe can demonstrate by historical 
documentation the existence of the tribe's villages, burial grounds, 
occupancy or subsistence use in the vicinity of the land.
    Surrounding community means local governments and nearby Indian 
tribes located within a 25-mile radius of the site of the proposed 
gaming establishment. A local government or nearby Indian tribe located 
beyond the 25-mile radius may petition for consultation if it can 
establish that its governmental functions, infrastructure or services 
will be directly, immediately and significantly impacted by the 
proposed gaming establishment.

Subpart B--Exceptions to Prohibitions on Gaming on Newly Acquired 
Lands


Sec.  292.3  How does a tribe seek an opinion on whether its newly 
acquired lands meet, or will meet, one of the exceptions in this 
subpart?

    (a) If the newly acquired lands are already in trust and the 
request does not concern whether a specific area of land is a 
``reservation,'' the tribe may submit a request for an opinion to 
either the National Indian Gaming Commission or the Office of Indian 
Gaming.
    (b) If the tribe seeks to game on newly acquired lands that require 
a land-into-trust application or the request concerns whether a 
specific area of land is a ``reservation,'' the tribe must submit a 
request for an opinion to the Office of Indian Gaming.


Sec.  292.4  What criteria must newly acquired lands meet under the 
exceptions regarding tribes with and without a reservation?

    For gaming to be allowed on newly acquired lands under the 
exceptions in 25 U.S.C. 2719(a) of IGRA, the land must meet the 
location requirements in either paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) of this 
section.
    (a) If the tribe had a reservation on October 17, 1988, the lands 
must be located within or contiguous to the boundaries of the 
reservation.
    (b) If the tribe had no reservation on October 17, 1988, the lands 
must be either:
    (1) Located in Oklahoma and within the boundaries of the tribe's 
former reservation or contiguous to other land held in trust or 
restricted status for the tribe in Oklahoma; or
    (2) Located in a State other than Oklahoma and within the tribe's 
last recognized reservation within the State or States within which the 
tribe is presently located, as evidenced by the tribe's governmental 
presence and tribal population.

''Settlement of a Land Claim'' Exception


Sec.  292.5  When can gaming occur on newly acquired lands under a 
settlement of a land claim?

    This section contains criteria for meeting the requirements of 25 
U.S.C. 2719(b)(1)(B)(i), known as the ``settlement of a land claim'' 
exception.

[[Page 29377]]

Gaming may occur on newly acquired lands if the land at issue is 
either:
    (a) Acquired under a settlement of a land claim that resolves or 
extinguishes with finality the tribe's land claim in whole or in part, 
thereby resulting in the alienation or loss of possession of some or 
all of the lands claimed by the tribe, in legislation enacted by 
Congress; or
    (b) Acquired under a settlement of a land claim that:
    (1) Is executed by the parties, which includes the United States, 
returns to the tribe all or part of the land claimed by the tribe, and 
resolves or extinguishes with finality the claims regarding the 
returned land; or
    (2) Is not executed by the United States, but is entered as a final 
order by a court of competent jurisdiction or is an enforceable 
agreement that in either case predates October 17, 1988 and resolves or 
extinguishes with finality the land claim at issue.

``Initial Reservation'' Exception


Sec.  292.6  What must be demonstrated to meet the ``initial 
reservation'' exception?

    This section contains criteria for meeting the requirements of 25 
U.S.C. 2719(b)(1)(B)(ii), known as the ``initial reservation'' 
exception. Gaming may occur on newly acquired lands under this 
exception only when all of the following conditions in this section are 
met:
    (a) The tribe has been acknowledged (federally recognized) through 
the administrative process under part 83 of this chapter.
    (b) The tribe has no gaming facility on newly acquired lands under 
the restored land exception of these regulations.
    (c) The land has been proclaimed to be a reservation under 25 
U.S.C. 467 and is the first proclaimed reservation of the tribe 
following acknowledgment.
    (d) If a tribe does not have a proclaimed reservation on the 
effective date of these regulations, to be proclaimed an initial 
reservation under this exception, the tribe must demonstrate the land 
is located within the State or States where the Indian tribe is now 
located, as evidenced by the tribe's governmental presence and tribal 
population, and within an area where the tribe has significant 
historical connections and one or more of the following modern 
connections to the land:
    (1) The land is near where a significant number of tribal members 
reside; or
    (2) The land is within a 25-mile radius of the tribe's headquarters 
or other tribal governmental facilities that have existed at that 
location for at least 2 years at the time of the application for land-
into-trust; or
    (3) The tribe can demonstrate other factors that establish the 
tribe's current connection to the land.

``Restored Lands'' Exception


Sec.  292.7  What must be demonstrated to meet the ``restored lands'' 
exception?

    This section contains criteria for meeting the requirements of 25 
U.S.C. 2719(b)(1)(B)(iii), known as the ``restored lands'' exception. 
Gaming may occur on newly acquired lands under this exception only when 
all of the following conditions in this section are met:
    (a) The tribe at one time was federally recognized, as evidenced by 
its meeting the criteria in Sec.  292.8;
    (b) The tribe at some later time lost its government-to-government 
relationship by one of the means specified in Sec.  292.9;
    (c) At a time after the tribe lost its government-to-government 
relationship, the tribe was restored to Federal recognition by one of 
the means specified in Sec.  292.10; and
    (d) The newly acquired lands meet the criteria of ``restored 
lands'' in Sec.  292.11.


Sec.  292.8  How does a tribe qualify as having been federally 
recognized?

    For a tribe to qualify as having been at one time federally 
recognized for purposes of Sec.  292.7, one of the following must be 
true:
    (a) The United States at one time entered into treaty negotiations 
with the tribe;
    (b) The Department determined that the tribe could organize under 
the Indian Reorganization Act or the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act;
    (c) Congress enacted legislation specific to, or naming, the tribe 
indicating that a government-to-government relationship existed;
    (d) The United States at one time acquired land for the tribe's 
benefit; or
    (e) Some other evidence demonstrates the existence of a government-
to-government relationship between the tribe and the United States.


Sec.  292.9  How does a tribe show that it lost its government-to-
government relationship?

    For a tribe to qualify as having lost its government-to-government 
relationship for purposes of Sec.  292.7, it must show that its 
government-to-government relationship was terminated by one of the 
following means:
    (a) Legislative termination;
    (b) Consistent historical written documentation from the Federal 
Government effectively stating that it no longer recognized a 
government-to-government relationship with the tribe or its members or 
taking action to end the government-to-government relationship; or
    (c) Congressional restoration legislation that recognizes the 
existence of the previous government-to-government relationship.


Sec.  292.10  How does a tribe qualify as having been restored to 
Federal recognition?

    For a tribe to qualify as having been restored to Federal 
recognition for purposes of Sec.  292.7, the tribe must show at least 
one of the following:
    (a) Congressional enactment of legislation recognizing, 
acknowledging, affirming, reaffirming, or restoring the government-to-
government relationship between the United States and the tribe 
(required for tribes terminated by Congressional action);
    (b) Recognition through the administrative Federal Acknowledgment 
Process under Sec.  83.8 of this chapter; or
    (c) A Federal court determination in which the United States is a 
party or court-approved settlement agreement entered into by the United 
States.


Sec.  292.11  What are ``restored lands''?

    For newly acquired lands to qualify as ''restored lands'' for 
purposes of Sec.  292.7, the tribe acquiring the lands must meet the 
requirements of paragraph (a), (b), or (c) of this section.
    (a) If the tribe was restored by a Congressional enactment of 
legislation recognizing, acknowledging, affirming, reaffirming, or 
restoring the government-to-government relationship between the United 
States and the tribe, the tribe must show that either:
    (1) The legislation requires or authorizes the Secretary to take 
land into trust for the benefit of the tribe within a specific 
geographic area and the lands are within the specific geographic area; 
or
    (2) If the legislation does not provide a specific geographic area 
for the restoration of lands, the tribe must meet the requirements of 
Sec.  292.12.
    (b) If the tribe is acknowledged under Sec.  83.8 of this chapter, 
it must show that it:
    (1) Meets the requirements of Sec.  292.12; and
    (2) Does not already have an initial reservation proclaimed after 
October 17, 1988.
    (c) If the tribe was restored by a Federal court determination in 
which the United States is a party or by a court-approved settlement 
agreement entered into by the United States, it must meet the 
requirements of Sec.  292.12.

[[Page 29378]]

Sec.  292.12  How does a tribe establish connections to newly acquired 
lands for the purposes of the ``restored lands'' exception?

    To establish a connection to the newly acquired lands for purposes 
of Sec.  292.11, the tribe must meet the criteria in this section.
    (a) The newly acquired lands must be located within the State or 
States where the tribe is now located, as evidenced by the tribe's 
governmental presence and tribal population, and the tribe must 
demonstrate one or more of the following modern connections to the 
land:
    (1) The land is within reasonable commuting distance of the tribe's 
existing reservation;
    (2) If the tribe has no reservation, the land is near where a 
significant number of tribal members reside;
    (3) The land is within a 25-mile radius of the tribe's headquarters 
or other tribal governmental facilities that have existed at that 
location for at least 2 years at the time of the application for land-
into-trust; or
    (4) Other factors demonstrate the tribe's current connection to the 
land.
    (b) The tribe must demonstrate a significant historical connection 
to the land.
    (c) The tribe must demonstrate a temporal connection between the 
date of the acquisition of the land and the date of the tribe's 
restoration. To demonstrate this connection, the tribe must be able to 
show that either:
    (1) The land is included in the tribe's first request for newly 
acquired lands since the tribe was restored to Federal recognition; or
    (2) The tribe submitted an application to take the land into trust 
within 25 years after the tribe was restored to Federal recognition and 
the tribe is not gaming on other lands.

Subpart C--Secretarial Determination and Governor's Concurrence


Sec.  292.13  When can a tribe conduct gaming activities on newly 
acquired lands that do not qualify under one of the exceptions in 
subpart B of this part?

    A tribe may conduct gaming on newly acquired lands that do not meet 
the criteria in subpart B of this part only after all of the following 
occur:
    (a) The tribe asks the Secretary in writing to make a Secretarial 
Determination that a gaming establishment on land subject to this part 
is in the best interest of the tribe and its members and not 
detrimental to the surrounding community;
    (b) The Secretary consults with the tribe and appropriate State and 
local officials, including officials of other nearby Indian tribes;
    (c) The Secretary makes a determination that a gaming establishment 
on newly acquired lands would be in the best interest of the tribe and 
its members and would not be detrimental to the surrounding community; 
and
    (d) The Governor of the State in which the gaming establishment is 
located concurs in the Secretary's Determination (25 U.S.C. 
2719(b)(1)(A)).


Sec.  292.14  Where must a tribe file an application for a Secretarial 
Determination?

    A tribe must file its application for a Secretarial Determination 
with the Regional Director of the BIA Regional Office having 
responsibility over the land where the gaming establishment is to be 
located.


Sec.  292.15  May a tribe apply for a Secretarial Determination for 
lands not yet held in trust?

    Yes. A tribe can apply for a Secretarial Determination under Sec.  
292.13 for land not yet held in trust at the same time that it applies 
under part 151 of this chapter to have the land taken into trust.

Application Contents


Sec.  292.16  What must an application for a Secretarial Determination 
contain?

    A tribe's application requesting a Secretarial Determination under 
Sec.  292.13 must include the following information:
    (a) The full name, address, and telephone number of the tribe 
submitting the application;
    (b) A description of the location of the land, including a legal 
description supported by a survey or other document;
    (c) Proof of identity of present ownership and title status of the 
land;
    (d) Distance of the land from the tribe's reservation or trust 
lands, if any, and tribal government headquarters;
    (e) Information required by Sec.  292.17 to assist the Secretary in 
determining whether the proposed gaming establishment will be in the 
best interest of the tribe and its members;
    (f) Information required by Sec.  292.18 to assist the Secretary in 
determining whether the proposed gaming establishment will not be 
detrimental to the surrounding community;
    (g) The authorizing resolution from the tribe submitting the 
application;
    (h) The tribe's gaming ordinance or resolution approved by the 
National Indian Gaming Commission in accordance with 25 U.S.C. 2710, if 
any;
    (i) The tribe's organic documents, if any;
    (j) The tribe's class III gaming compact with the State where the 
gaming establishment is to be located, if one has been negotiated;
    (k) If the tribe has not negotiated a class III gaming compact with 
the State where the gaming establishment is to be located, the tribe's 
proposed scope of gaming, including the size of the proposed gaming 
establishment; and
    (l) A copy of the existing or proposed management contract required 
to be approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission under 25 U.S.C. 
2711 and part 533 of this title, if any.


Sec.  292.17  How must an application describe the benefits and impacts 
of the proposed gaming establishment to the tribe and its members?

    To satisfy the requirements of Sec.  292.16(e), an application must 
contain:
    (a) Projections of class II and class III gaming income statements, 
balance sheets, fixed assets accounting, and cash flow statements for 
the gaming entity and the tribe;
    (b) Projected tribal employment, job training, and career 
development;
    (c) Projected benefits to the tribe and its members from tourism;
    (d) Projected benefits to the tribe and its members from the 
proposed uses of the increased tribal income;
    (e) Projected benefits to the relationship between the tribe and 
non-Indian communities;
    (f) Possible adverse impacts on the tribe and its members and plans 
for addressing those impacts;
    (g) Distance of the land from the location where the tribe 
maintains core governmental functions;
    (h) Evidence that the tribe owns the land in fee or holds an option 
to acquire the land at the sole discretion of the tribe, or holds other 
contractual rights to cause the lands to be transferred from a third 
party to the tribe or directly to the United States;
    (i) Evidence of significant historical connections, if any, to the 
land; and
    (j) Any other information that may provide a basis for a 
Secretarial Determination that the gaming establishment would be in the 
best interest of the tribe and its members, including copies of any:
    (1) Consulting agreements relating to the proposed gaming 
establishment;
    (2) Financial and loan agreements relating to the proposed gaming 
establishment; and
    (3) Other agreements relative to the purchase, acquisition, 
construction, or financing of the proposed gaming establishment, or the 
acquisition of the land where the gaming establishment will be located.

[[Page 29379]]

Sec.  292.18  What information must an application contain on 
detrimental impacts to the surrounding community?

    To satisfy the requirements of Sec.  292.16(f), an application must 
contain the following information on detrimental impacts of the 
proposed gaming establishment:
    (a) Information regarding environmental impacts and plans for 
mitigating adverse impacts, including an Environmental Assessment (EA), 
an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), or other information required 
by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA);
    (b) Anticipated impacts on the social structure, infrastructure, 
services, housing, community character, and land use patterns of the 
surrounding community;
    (c) Anticipated impacts on the economic development, income, and 
employment of the surrounding community;
    (d) Anticipated costs of impacts to the surrounding community and 
identification of sources of revenue to mitigate them;
    (e) Anticipated cost, if any, to the surrounding community of 
treatment programs for compulsive gambling attributable to the proposed 
gaming establishment;
    (f) If a nearby Indian tribe has a significant historical 
connection to the land, then the impact on that tribe's traditional 
cultural connection to the land; and
    (g) Any other information that may provide a basis for a 
Secretarial Determination whether the proposed gaming establishment 
would or would not be detrimental to the surrounding community, 
including memoranda of understanding and inter-governmental agreements 
with affected local governments.

Consultation


Sec.  292.19  How will the Regional Director conduct the consultation 
process?

    (a) The Regional Director will send a letter that meets the 
requirements in Sec.  292.20 and that solicits comments within a 60-day 
period from:
    (1) Appropriate State and local officials; and
    (2) Officials of nearby Indian tribes.
    (b) Upon written request, the Regional Director may extend the 60-
day comment period for an additional 30 days.
    (c) After the close of the consultation period, the Regional 
Director must:
    (1) Provide a copy of all comments received during the consultation 
process to the applicant tribe; and
    (2) Allow the tribe to address or resolve any issues raised in the 
comments.
    (d) The applicant tribe must submit written responses, if any, to 
the Regional Director within 60 days of receipt of the consultation 
comments.
    (e) On written request from the applicant tribe, the Regional 
Director may extend the 60-day comment period in paragraph (d) of this 
section for an additional 30 days.


Sec.  292.20  What information must the consultation letter include?

    (a) The consultation letter required by Sec.  292.19(a) must:
    (1) Describe or show the location of the proposed gaming 
establishment;
    (2) Provide information on the proposed scope of gaming; and
    (3) Include other information that may be relevant to a specific 
proposal, such as the size of the proposed gaming establishment, if 
known.
    (b) The consultation letter must include a request to the 
recipients to submit comments, if any, on the following areas within 60 
days of receiving the letter:
    (1) Information regarding environmental impacts on the surrounding 
community and plans for mitigating adverse impacts;
    (2) Anticipated impacts on the social structure, infrastructure, 
services, housing, community character, and land use patterns of the 
surrounding community;
    (3) Anticipated impact on the economic development, income, and 
employment of the surrounding community;
    (4) Anticipated costs of impacts to the surrounding community and 
identification of sources of revenue to mitigate them;
    (5) Anticipated costs, if any, to the surrounding community of 
treatment programs for compulsive gambling attributable to the proposed 
gaming establishment; and
    (6) Any other information that may assist the Secretary in 
determining whether the proposed gaming establishment would or would 
not be detrimental to the surrounding community.

Evaluation and Concurrence


Sec.  292.21  How will the Secretary evaluate a proposed gaming 
establishment?

    (a) The Secretary will consider all the information submitted under 
Sec. Sec.  292.16-292.19 in evaluating whether the proposed gaming 
establishment is in the best interest of the tribe and its members and 
whether it would or would not be detrimental to the surrounding 
community.
    (b) If the Secretary makes an unfavorable Secretarial 
Determination, the Secretary will inform the tribe that its application 
has been disapproved, and set forth the reasons for the disapproval.
    (c) If the Secretary makes a favorable Secretarial Determination, 
the Secretary will proceed under Sec.  292.22.


Sec.  292.22  How does the Secretary request the Governor's 
concurrence?

    If the Secretary makes a favorable Secretarial Determination, the 
Secretary will send to the Governor of the State:
    (a) A written notification of the Secretarial Determination and 
Findings of Fact supporting the determination;
    (b) A copy of the entire application record; and
    (c) A request for the Governor's concurrence in the Secretarial 
Determination.


Sec.  292.23  What happens if the Governor does not affirmatively 
concur with the Secretarial Determination?

    (a) If the Governor provides a written non-concurrence with the 
Secretarial Determination:
    (1) The applicant tribe may use the newly acquired lands only for 
non-gaming purposes; and
    (2) If a notice of intent to take the land into trust has been 
issued, then the Secretary will withdraw that notice pending a revised 
application for a non-gaming purpose.
    (b) If the Governor does not affirmatively concur in the 
Secretarial Determination within one year of the date of the request, 
the Secretary may, at the request of the applicant tribe or the 
Governor, grant an extension of up to 180 days.
    (c) If no extension is granted or if the Governor does not respond 
during the extension period, the Secretarial Determination will no 
longer be valid.


Sec.  292.24  Can the public review the Secretarial Determination?

    Subject to restrictions on disclosure required by the Freedom of 
Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552), the Privacy Act (5 U.S.C. 552a), and 
the Trade Secrets Act (18 U.S.C. 1905), the Secretarial Determination 
and the supporting documents will be available for review at the local 
BIA agency or Regional Office having administrative jurisdiction over 
the land.

[[Page 29380]]

Information Collection


Sec.  292.25  Do information collections in this part have Office of 
Management and Budget approval?

    The information collection requirements in Sec. Sec.  292.16, 
292.17, and 292.18 have been approved by the Office of Management and 
Budget (OMB). The information collection control number is 1076-0158. A 
Federal agency may not collect or sponsor and a person is not required 
to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a 
currently valid OMB control.

Subpart D--Effect of Regulations


Sec.  292.26  What effect do these regulations have on pending 
applications, final agency decisions, and opinions already issued?

    These regulations apply to all requests pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 2719, 
except:
    (a) These regulations do not alter final agency decisions made 
pursuant to 25 U.S.C. 2719 before the date of enactment of these 
regulations.
    (b) These regulations apply to final agency action taken after the 
effective date of these regulations except that these regulations shall 
not apply to applicable agency actions when, before the effective date 
of these regulations, the Department or the National Indian Gaming 
Commission (NIGC) issued a written opinion regarding the applicability 
of 25 U.S.C. 2719 for land to be used for a particular gaming 
establishment, provided that the Department or the NIGC retains full 
discretion to qualify, withdraw or modify such opinions.

    Dated: May 12, 2008.
Carl J. Artman,
Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs.
[FR Doc. E8-11086 Filed 5-19-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-4N-P