8.04.020 Authority and Purpose

(a) The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council ("Tribal Council") is the duly recognized governing body of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe ("Tribe") and is responsible for the health, safety, education and welfare of all members of the Tribe. The Tribe has the inherent authority to govern matters concerning residency within its Territory and jurisdiction subject to the requirements of applicable Tribal law.

(b) The purpose of this Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Residency Ordinance ("Ordinance") is to protect the peace, safety, property, health, and general welfare of Tribal Members; and to preserve the Tribe's culture, language and identity as a distinct Mohawk community, ensure the safety of the Mohawk community and preserve land and housing for the benefit of Tribal Members.

(c) This chapter recognizes and confirms the right of Tribal Members to reside on the Saint Regis Mohawk Indian Reservation and other lands over which the Tribe has jurisdiction (all such lands referred to herein as "Mohawk Territory" or "Territory") without the need for a Permit. This chapter also recognizes that there may be Non-Tribal Members who might qualify for residency under certain situations

(d) This chapter establishes laws for Non-Members to obtain Residency Permits allowing them to reside on Mohawk Territory under the conditions established herein.