Washington HB2281 establishes a government-to-government relationship between state agencies and Indian tribes, ensuring consultation and protection.

Washington HB2281 amends state law to establish a government-to-government relationship with Indian tribes, requiring state agencies to consult with tribes on actions affecting tribal traditional cultural places. State agencies must engage in early, meaningful, and consent-based consultation with affected tribes, providing timely notice and allowing adequate time for evaluation. The bill also mandates that state agencies cannot impose undue burdens on tribal cultural practices and requires the designation of tribal liaisons.

Washington HB2281 establishes a government-to-government relationship between state agencies and Indian tribes, ensuring consultation and protection.

Washington HB2281 amends state law to establish a government-to-government relationship with Indian tribes, requiring state agencies to consult with tribes on actions affecting tribal traditional cultural places. State agencies must engage in early, meaningful, and consent-based consultation with affected tribes, providing timely notice and allowing adequate time for evaluation. The bill also mandates that state agencies cannot impose undue burdens on tribal cultural practices and requires the designation of tribal liaisons.