H.R. 1723: Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act of 2025

This bill is known as the Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act of 2025. It aims to make specific amendments to the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) regarding the rights of Indian tribes and their enterprises on Indian lands. The key changes proposed in the bill are as follows:

Key Provisions

• The bill clarifies that the term "employer" under the NLRA will include any Indian tribe and any "enterprise or institution owned and operated by an Indian tribe and located on its Indian lands." This means that tribal entities will be recognized as employers under the law.
• The definition of "Indian tribe" is specified to be any tribe, band, nation, pueblo, or organized group recognized by the United States, thus broadening the legal understanding of what constitutes an Indian tribe.
• It defines "Indian lands" to include:
  • All lands within the limits of Indian reservations.
  • Any lands held in trust by the United States for the benefit of an Indian tribe or Indian.
  • Any lands in Oklahoma that lie within the boundaries of former reservations of federally recognized tribes.

Impact on Labor Relations

The bill aims to clarify that the National Labor Relations Act does not extend to tribal entities operating on Indian lands. This means that these entities would not be subject to federal oversight and regulations regarding labor relations, thus asserting their sovereignty in managing labor matters without external interference. This could include decisions on unionization and collective bargaining, which would be self-regulated by the tribes or their businesses.

Rationale for the Bill

The intention behind this legislation is to acknowledge and reinforce the sovereignty of Indian tribes over their labor relations and to provide them with the autonomy to govern these affairs without federal involvement. Proponents argue that this would help tribes manage their workforce in a manner that aligns with their cultural and economic interests.

Legislative Process

The bill was introduced to the House of Representatives on February 27, 2025, by Mr. Moolenaar and co-sponsored by several other representatives. It has been referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce for further consideration.

Relevant Companies

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