Rep. Cole Adds Language in Patriot Act to Protect Tribal Sovereignty

WASHINGTON, D.C. -Congressman Cole announced today that language to protect tribal sovereignty, specifically in the collection of taxes on cigarettes and smokeless tobacco in Indian Country, was included in the USA PATRIOT and Terrorism Prevention Reauthorization Act of 2005 Conference Report (H.R. 3199).

Congressman Cole used his position on the powerful Rules Committee to insist that language protecting tribal sovereignty was included in the bill when it passed in the House earlier this year. He then worked to ensure it was included in the final version of the legislation.

Language, included by Congressman Cole, would protect tribal tax and regulatory authority as well as any intergovernmental agreements entered into between tribes and states relating to the collection of taxes on cigarettes and smokeless tobacco in Indian country. Original language, offered by Congressman Howard Coble (R-NC), unintentionally affected tribal governments who are legitimately involved in tobacco sales.

"As the only enrolled tribal member in Congress, the issue of tribal sovereignty is of great personal importance to me," Congressman Cole said. "Tribes have entered into numerous intergovernmental agreements with states to address tax concerns--I believe it is important not to interrupt these established, working contracts. The language in the final legislation will protect these agreements and tribal sovereignty."

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