Governor Janet Mills of Maine has blocked a significant legislative initiative aimed at providing wider federal recognition to the Wabanaki tribes. The vetoing of the bill sparked frustration and dismay among tribal communities. Notably, the bill excluded the privilege of the tribes to undertake Class II gaming within their reservations- a compromise made to gain approval from Republicans in Maine. Unmoved by this, the legislature in the state passed the bill with a supermajority vote, theoretically granting lawmakers the ability to overturn the governor’s veto.
Gov. Janet Mills of Maine Vetoes Legislation, Calls for Revision
Advocate of this bill, particularly Chief Kirk Francis of the Penobscot Nation,
had previously extolled the bill’s potential to bring about a milestone achievement in the self-governance of the Wabanaki tribes. Hence, Governor Mills’ decision was met with surprise. This is the second instance where Governor Mills has quashed a legal initiative aimed at widening the sovereignty of the Wabanaki tribes, who currently possess less expansive sovereignty compared to other Native American groups in the U.S.
Under the existing Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act (MICSA), the Wabanaki tribes are subjected to constraints on their sovereign rights. They remain under state jurisdiction instead of enjoying equal treatment alongside the country’s 570 other federally recognized tribes. The goal of legislation ID 2004 was to correct this imbalance, giving the tribes access to federal benefits previously unavailable due to the 1980 land claims settlement.
In her six-paged veto letter, Governor Mills highlighted her concerns about the probability of legal disputes and conflicts arising from certain provisions of the legislation. She was particularly concerned about its implications on public health, safety, and welfare regulations within tribal lands under Maine laws. She urged everyone involved, including the tribes and the Attorney General, to synergize their efforts towards drafting an improved proposal that could more efficiently address the concerns of the tribes.
Tribal Leaders of Wabanaki Confounded by Governor’s Actions, Anticipating Legislative Veto Override
Tribal leaders of the Wabanaki expressed their disappointment and questioned the governor’s intentions. Chief Kirk Francis alleged that Governor Mills’ actions were insincere and purported to retain an antiquated mindset obstructing the tribes’ progression. Despite the hindrance, he maintained his optimism regarding the legislature’s ability to override the veto, citing the bill’s popularity among Maine’s citizens who value equitable treatment.
Negating the barriers, tribal leaders remain resolute in their advocacy for greater sovereignty and autonomy. They have been contending with several obstacles since the 1980 settlement, including conflicts over water rights, environmental concerns, and the absence of direct engagement with the federal government, unlike other federally recognized tribes.
Now, the attention would be focused on whether the legislature will succeed in gathering the necessary support to override the governor’s veto, clearing the path for this highly anticipated legislation. Interestingly, in early 2022, Maine became the first state to legalize sports betting, permitting Native American tribes to initiate mobile sports gambling and foster partnerships with commercial operators.
