81_FR_89252 81 FR 89015 - Traders With Indians

81 FR 89015 - Traders With Indians

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Bureau of Indian Affairs

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 237 (December 9, 2016)

Page Range89015-89017
FR Document2016-29253

The Department of the Interior (Department) is considering whether to propose an administrative rule that would comprehensively update 25 CFR part 140 (Licensed Indian Traders) in an effort to modernize the implementation of the Indian Trader statutes consistent with the Federal policies of Tribal self-determination and self- governance. The current regulations were promulgated in 1957 and have not been comprehensively updated since 1965. The purpose of this advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) is to solicit public comments on whether and how the Department should update 25 CFR part 140, including how the Indian Trader regulations might be updated to govern who trades on Indian land and how the regulations can better promote Tribal self-determination regarding trade on Indian lands. In this ANPRM, the Department also announces dates and locations for Tribal consultations and public meetings to consider this issue.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 237 (Friday, December 9, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 237 (Friday, December 9, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 89015-89017]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-29253]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Bureau of Indian Affairs

25 CFR Part 140

[178A2100DD/AAKC001030/A0A501010.999900 253G]
RIN 1076-AF30


Traders With Indians

AGENCY: Bureau of Indian Affairs, Interior.

ACTION: Advance notice of proposed rulemaking; solicitation of 
comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Department of the Interior (Department) is considering 
whether to propose an administrative rule that would comprehensively 
update 25 CFR part 140 (Licensed Indian Traders) in an effort to 
modernize the implementation of the Indian Trader statutes consistent 
with the Federal policies of Tribal self-determination and self-
governance. The current regulations were promulgated in 1957 and have 
not been comprehensively updated since 1965. The purpose of this 
advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) is to solicit public 
comments on whether and how the Department should update 25 CFR part 
140, including how the Indian Trader regulations might be updated to 
govern who trades on Indian land and how the regulations can better 
promote Tribal self-determination regarding trade on Indian lands. In 
this ANPRM, the Department also announces dates and locations for 
Tribal consultations and public meetings to consider this issue.

DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before April 10, 2017.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by any of the following methods:
    Federal rulemaking portal: http://www.regulations.gov. The rule is 
listed under the agency name ``Bureau of Indian Affairs.'' The rule has 
been assigned Docket ID: BIA-2016-0007.
    Mail or hand delivery: Elizabeth K. Appel, Director, Office of 
Regulatory Affairs & Collaborative Action, Indian Affairs, U.S. 
Department of the Interior, 1849 C St. NW., Mail Stop 3642-MIB, 
Washington, DC 20240.
    Please see the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document 
for information on Tribal consultation sessions.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Elizabeth Appel, Director, Office of 
Regulatory Affairs and Collaborative Action, Office of the Assistant 
Secretary--Indian Affairs; telephone (202) 273-4680, 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Public Comment

    The Department is considering whether to propose an administrative 
rule that would comprehensively update 25 CFR part 140 (Licensed Indian 
Traders) in an effort to modernize the implementation of the Indian 
Trader statutes consistent with the Federal policies of Tribal self-
determination and self-governance. We are interested in hearing from 
federally recognized tribes. We also welcome comments and information 
from states and their agencies and from the public.
    To be most useful, and most likely to inform decisions on the 
content of a potential administrative rule, comments should:
    --Be specific;
    --Be substantive;
    --Explain the reasoning behind the comments; and
    --Address the issues outlined in the ANPRM.
    For the purpose of this ANPRM, we are seeking input solely on 
questions related to a potential administrative rule on whether and how 
the Department of the Interior should update 25 CFR part 140, including 
how the Indian Trader regulations might be updated to govern who trades 
on Indian land in a manner more consistent with Tribal self-governance 
and self-determination.
    We are seeking comments solely on following questions:
    1. Should the Federal government address trade occurring in Indian 
Country through an updated 25 CFR part 140, and why?
    2. Are there certain components of the existing rule that should be 
kept, and if so, why?
    3. How can revisions to the existing rule ensure that persons who 
conduct trade are reputable and that there are mechanisms in place to 
address traders who violate Federal or Tribal law?
    4. How do Tribes currently regulate trade in Indian Country and how 
might

[[Page 89016]]

revisions to 25 CFR part 140 help Tribes regulate trade in Indian 
Country?
    5. What types of trade should be regulated and what type of trader 
should be subject to regulation?
    6. How might revisions to the regulations promote economic 
viability and sustainability in Indian Country?
    7. What services do Tribes currently provide to individuals or 
entities doing business in Indian Country and what role do tax revenues 
play in providing those services?
    In addition to receiving comments through the Federal eRulemaking 
Portal, U.S. mail, courier services, and hand delivery (see ADDRESSES 
section above), we will conduct a series of in-person consultations 
with federally recognized Tribes, as listed below.
    Before including your address, phone number, email address, or 
other personal information in your comment--including personal 
identifying information--please be aware that your comment may be made 
publically available at any time. While you may ask in your comment 
that we withhold your personal identifying information from public 
review, we cannot guarantee we will be able to do so.

Tribal Consultations

    The Department of the Interior will be hosting consultation 
sessions with Indian Tribes on this ANPRM We will accept both oral and 
written communications at these consultation sessions.
    The following table lists dates and tentative locations for the 
consultations. Specifics on the venue for each location will be 
provided in a subsequent Federal Register notice.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Date                  Time (local time zone)                       Location
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, February 23, 2017.........  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Seattle area.
Tuesday, February 28, 2017..........  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Southeastern U.S.
Thursday, March 2, 2017.............  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Southern California.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017..............  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Billings, Montana.
Thursday, March 9, 2017.............  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Rapid City, South Dakota.
Tuesday, March 14, 2017.............  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Prior Lake, Minnesota.
Thursday, March 16, 2017............  8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m...  Northeastern U.S.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Background

    The Department is considering whether to propose a rule that would 
comprehensively update 25 CFR part 140 (Licensed Indian Traders) to 
modernize the implementation of the Indian Trader statutes consistent 
with the Federal policies of Tribal self-government and self-
determination. The current Indian Trader regulations were promulgated 
in 1957, revised in 1965, and modified in 1984 in a piecemeal fashion. 
The current regulations largely reflect policies that ignore Tribal 
self-determination and the growth of Tribal economies.
    Congress granted the Department broad and comprehensive authority 
to regulate trade in Indian Country by determining the proper persons 
to be ``Indian traders.'' See 25 U.S.C. 261 et seq.; see also 25 U.S.C. 
9. The Department would seek to implement these responsibilities in a 
manner that reflects the current Nation-to-Nation relationship with 
Tribes should the Department propose a rule that updates 25 CFR part 
140. The Department recognizes that many Tribes have enacted 
comprehensive laws concerning economic activity occurring on Tribal 
lands and that Tribal courts often retain jurisdiction over Indian 
traders. This ANPRM solicits information regarding current Tribal 
regulatory activity over trade occurring within Indian Country.
    Additionally, the Department recognizes that dual taxation on 
Tribal lands can undermine the Federal policies supporting Tribal 
economic development, self-determination, and strong Tribal 
governments. Dual taxation of traders and activities conducted by 
traders and purchasers can impede a Tribe's ability to attract 
investment to Indian lands where such investment and participation are 
critical to the vitality of Tribal economies. Tribal communities 
continue to struggle with unmet needs, such as in their schools and 
housing, as well as economic development, to name a few. Moreover, 
beyond the operation of their governments, Tribes continually pursue 
funding for infrastructure, roads, dams, irrigation systems and water 
delivery. Thus, the Department solicits information under this ANPRM 
about how revisions to the regulations could promote economic viability 
and sustainability in Indian Country.

Description of the Information Requested

    We are particularly interested in receiving comments on the 
following questions relating to revisions of the 25 CFR part 140 we may 
develop concerning trade occurring in Indian Country:
    1. Should the Federal government address trade occurring in Indian 
Country through an updated 25 CFR part 140, and why?
    We are seeking views on whether there is a need in Indian Country 
for the Federal government to revise 25 CFR part 140. As mentioned, 
Congress granted the Department broad authority to regulate trade in 
Indian Country. Specifically, under 25 U.S.C. 261, Power to appoint 
traders with Indians, the Department of the Interior (previously the 
Commissioner of Indian Affairs) has authority to make rules specifying 
the kind and quantity of goods that may be sold to Indians and the 
prices at which such goods shall be sold. Under 25 U.S.C. 262, Persons 
permitted to trade with Indians, the Department has the authority to 
establish rules and regulations governing trade on Indian reservations 
for the protection of the Indians.
    The Department acknowledges the comprehensive Federal regulation of 
Indian traders in some areas of Indian Country, but also notes that 
many Tribes currently regulate trade occurring within their 
jurisdictions under Tribal laws and authority, often without Federal 
involvement. The Department also acknowledges its trust responsibility 
to Tribes and solicits information on whether there is a need for 
updated regulations addressing a modern approach to the Federal role 
concerning trade occurring in Indian Country.
    2. Are there certain components of the existing rule that should be 
kept, and if so, why?
    Should the Department conclude that there is a need for revisions 
to the existing rule, the Department seeks comments as to which parts, 
if any, of the existing rule should be kept. For instance, where the 
Department has issued licenses, should there be a grandfathering clause 
for currently valid licenses that the Department has issued under part 
140?
    Alternatively, if commenters believe there is a need to update 25 
CFR part 140, and that no components of the existing rule should be 
kept, the

[[Page 89017]]

Department requests information as to why this should be so. 
Additionally, the Department seeks views and proposals on what an 
entirely new proposed rule may look like. For instance, if the 
Department should no longer issue licenses, what do commenters envision 
Federal involvement to be?
    3. How can revisions to the existing rule ensure that persons who 
conduct trade are reputable and that there are mechanisms in place to 
address traders who violate Federal or Tribal law?
    If there is a need to update 25 CFR part 140, we solicit 
information and suggestions on how revisions to the existing rule can 
ensure that there are reputable actors in Indian Country. Further, the 
Department requests information and suggestions on revisions to the 
existing rule to ensure that violations of Federal or Tribal law are 
properly addressed. The Department acknowledges that many Tribes have 
comprehensive schemes in place regulating traders conducting business 
within their jurisdiction.
    4. How do Tribes currently regulate trade in Indian Country, and 
how might revisions to 25 CFR part 140 help Tribes regulate trade in 
Indian Country?
    As mentioned, the Department recognizes that many Tribes have 
enacted comprehensive laws concerning economic activity occurring on 
Tribal lands and that many Tribal courts retain jurisdiction over 
Indian traders. For example, the Department is aware that some Tribes 
have required disclosure of violations of business licenses and of 
enforcement actions taken by a Federal, Tribal, or State entity for 
trade-related activity. Tribes have also required the disclosure of any 
pending lawsuits involving the person and the business, and disclosure 
of tax liens against the business and other unsatisfied judgments. 
Other items that Tribes have required include a Federal employer 
identification number, a State registration number, insurance or 
bonding information, copies of all licenses (state, county, city or 
Tribal) currently held by the business, and affiliation with any other 
businesses.
    With this in mind, the Department requests information on how 
Tribes currently regulate trade within their jurisdiction. The 
Department requests specific information and suggestions, including 
language on how the Federal government can bolster those Tribes that 
currently comprehensively regulate trade, as well as those Tribes that 
do not do so presently.
    5. What types of trade should be regulated and what types of 
traders should be subject to regulation?
    The Department has received numerous proposals from various Tribes 
pertaining to Indian Trader regulation. Many of these proposals suggest 
that trade regulated under part 140 should include not only commercial 
activities, but also mineral and energy development and any form of 
natural-resources extraction or agriculture.
    Currently, section 140.5(a)(1) of the existing rule has the 
following definitions:
    (5) Contract means any agreement made or under negotiation with any 
Indian for the purchase, transportation or delivery of goods or 
supplies.
    (6) Trading means buying, selling, bartering, renting, leasing, 
permitting and any other transaction involving the acquisition of 
property or services.
    (7) Commercial trading means any trading transaction where an 
employee engages in the business of buying or selling services or items 
which he/she is trading.

The Department seeks comments on whether the definitions of contract, 
trading, and commercial trading should be revised, or struck in their 
entirety, and why.
    Additionally, the current definitions do not define the type of 
trader conducting business with an Indian Tribe. The draft proposals 
the Department has received recommend that the revised rule apply to 
any person conducting trade in Indian Country, including non-Indians. 
The Department solicits comments on whether an updated part 140 should 
define who the rule would apply to and whether or not this definition 
should broadly include any person conducting trade within Indian 
Country.
    6. How might revisions to the regulations promote economic 
viability and sustainability in Indian Country?
    The Department is interested in receiving feedback on how revisions 
to the trade regulations could facilitate economic activity in Indian 
country and tribal economic self-sufficiency.
    7. What services do Tribes currently provide to individuals or 
entities doing business in Indian Country and what role do tax revenues 
play in providing such services?
    The Department recognizes that Tribes provide a range of services 
to Indians and non-Indians doing business within their Indian Country. 
The Department seeks comments identifying the types of services 
offered, such as law enforcement, food sanitation and health 
inspections, transportation and other infrastructure, etc. The 
Department also seeks information on whether and to what extent Tribes 
are able to rely on tax revenues to provide such services.

    Dated: December 1, 2016.
Lawrence S. Roberts,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs.
[FR Doc. 2016-29253 Filed 12-8-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4337-15-P



                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 237 / Friday, December 9, 2016 / Proposed Rules                                          89015

                                                    summary of relevant comments we                         but is unpaid at the death of that spouse               Mail or hand delivery: Elizabeth K.
                                                    received, if any, and responses to them.                or former spouse, the unpaid amount                   Appel, Director, Office of Regulatory
                                                    We will also include an explanation of                  may be paid in accordance with                        Affairs & Collaborative Action, Indian
                                                    how we will apply the new rule.                         § 234.31 of this chapter, pertaining to               Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior,
                                                                                                            employee annuities unpaid at death.                   1849 C St. NW., Mail Stop 3642–MIB,
                                                    Regulatory Procedures                                                                                         Washington, DC 20240.
                                                                                                            *     *    *      *    *
                                                    Executive Order 12866, as                                                                                       Please see the SUPPLEMENTARY
                                                                                                              Dated: December 6, 2016.                            INFORMATION section of this document
                                                    Supplemented by Executive Order
                                                                                                              By Authority of the Board.                          for information on Tribal consultation
                                                    13563
                                                                                                            Martha P. Rico,                                       sessions.
                                                      The Board, with the concurrence of
                                                                                                            Secretary to the Board.                               FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                    the Office of Management and Budget,
                                                                                                            [FR Doc. 2016–29496 Filed 12–8–16; 8:45 am]           Elizabeth Appel, Director, Office of
                                                    has determined that this is not a
                                                    significant regulatory action under                     BILLING CODE P                                        Regulatory Affairs and Collaborative
                                                    Executive Order 12866, as                                                                                     Action, Office of the Assistant
                                                    supplemented by Executive Order                                                                               Secretary—Indian Affairs; telephone
                                                    13563. Therefore, no regulatory impact                  DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR                            (202) 273–4680, elizabeth.appel@
                                                    analysis is required.                                                                                         bia.gov.
                                                                                                            Bureau of Indian Affairs                              SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                    Regulatory Flexibility Act
                                                       The Board certifies that this proposed               25 CFR Part 140                                       Public Comment
                                                    rule would not have a significant                                                                                The Department is considering
                                                                                                            [178A2100DD/AAKC001030/
                                                    economic impact on a substantial                                                                              whether to propose an administrative
                                                                                                            A0A501010.999900 253G]
                                                    number of small entities because it                                                                           rule that would comprehensively
                                                    affects individuals only. Therefore, a                  RIN 1076–AF30                                         update 25 CFR part 140 (Licensed
                                                    regulatory flexibility analysis is not                                                                        Indian Traders) in an effort to
                                                    required under the Regulatory                           Traders With Indians                                  modernize the implementation of the
                                                    Flexibility Act, as amended.                                                                                  Indian Trader statutes consistent with
                                                                                                            AGENCY:   Bureau of Indian Affairs,
                                                                                                                                                                  the Federal policies of Tribal self-
                                                    Paperwork Reduction Act                                 Interior.
                                                                                                                                                                  determination and self-governance. We
                                                      This Proposed Rule imposes no                         ACTION: Advance notice of proposed                    are interested in hearing from federally
                                                    reporting or recordkeeping requirements                 rulemaking; solicitation of comments.                 recognized tribes. We also welcome
                                                    subject to OMB clearance.                                                                                     comments and information from states
                                                                                                            SUMMARY:   The Department of the
                                                    List of Subjects in 20 CFR Part 295                                                                           and their agencies and from the public.
                                                                                                            Interior (Department) is considering                     To be most useful, and most likely to
                                                      Railroad retirement.                                  whether to propose an administrative                  inform decisions on the content of a
                                                      For the reasons set out in the                        rule that would comprehensively                       potential administrative rule, comments
                                                    preamble, the Railroad Retirement                       update 25 CFR part 140 (Licensed                      should:
                                                    Board proposes to amend title 20,                       Indian Traders) in an effort to                          —Be specific;
                                                    chapter II, subchapter B, part 295 of the               modernize the implementation of the                      —Be substantive;
                                                    Code of Federal Regulations as follows:                 Indian Trader statutes consistent with                   —Explain the reasoning behind the
                                                                                                            the Federal policies of Tribal self-                  comments; and
                                                    PART 295—PAYMENTS PURSUANT                              determination and self-governance. The                   —Address the issues outlined in the
                                                    TO COURT DECREE OR COURT-                               current regulations were promulgated in               ANPRM.
                                                    APPROVED SETTLEMENT                                     1957 and have not been                                   For the purpose of this ANPRM, we
                                                                                                            comprehensively updated since 1965.                   are seeking input solely on questions
                                                    ■ 1. The authority citation for part 295                The purpose of this advance notice of                 related to a potential administrative rule
                                                    continues to read as follows:                           proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) is to                     on whether and how the Department of
                                                        Authority: 45 U.S.C. 231f; 45 U.S.C. 231m.          solicit public comments on whether and                the Interior should update 25 CFR part
                                                                                                            how the Department should update 25                   140, including how the Indian Trader
                                                    § 295.5   [Amended]                                     CFR part 140, including how the Indian                regulations might be updated to govern
                                                    ■ 2. Amend § 295.5 to revise paragraph                  Trader regulations might be updated to                who trades on Indian land in a manner
                                                    (d) to read as follows:                                 govern who trades on Indian land and                  more consistent with Tribal self-
                                                                                                            how the regulations can better promote                governance and self-determination.
                                                    § 295.5   Limitations.
                                                                                                            Tribal self-determination regarding                      We are seeking comments solely on
                                                    *     *     *     *     *                               trade on Indian lands. In this ANPRM,                 following questions:
                                                      (d) Payees. Payment of an amount                      the Department also announces dates                      1. Should the Federal government
                                                    awarded to a spouse or former spouse                    and locations for Tribal consultations                address trade occurring in Indian
                                                    by a court decree or property settlement                and public meetings to consider this                  Country through an updated 25 CFR
                                                    will be made only to the spouse or                      issue.                                                part 140, and why?
                                                    former spouse except where the Board                                                                             2. Are there certain components of the
                                                    determines that another person shall be                 DATES: Comments must be submitted on                  existing rule that should be kept, and if
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    recognized to act on behalf of the spouse               or before April 10, 2017.                             so, why?
                                                    or former spouse as provided in Part 266                ADDRESSES: You may submit comments                       3. How can revisions to the existing
                                                    of the chapter, relating to incompetence.               by any of the following methods:                      rule ensure that persons who conduct
                                                    Payment will not be made to the heirs,                    Federal rulemaking portal: http://                  trade are reputable and that there are
                                                    legatees, creditors or assignees of a                   www.regulations.gov. The rule is listed               mechanisms in place to address traders
                                                    spouse or former spouse, except that                    under the agency name ‘‘Bureau of                     who violate Federal or Tribal law?
                                                    where an amount is payable to a spouse                  Indian Affairs.’’ The rule has been                      4. How do Tribes currently regulate
                                                    or former spouse pursuant to this part,                 assigned Docket ID: BIA–2016–0007.                    trade in Indian Country and how might


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                                                    89016                     Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 237 / Friday, December 9, 2016 / Proposed Rules

                                                    revisions to 25 CFR part 140 help Tribes                     U.S. mail, courier services, and hand                                cannot guarantee we will be able to do
                                                    regulate trade in Indian Country?                            delivery (see ADDRESSES section above),                              so.
                                                      5. What types of trade should be                           we will conduct a series of in-person
                                                                                                                                                                                      Tribal Consultations
                                                    regulated and what type of trader                            consultations with federally recognized
                                                    should be subject to regulation?                             Tribes, as listed below.                                               The Department of the Interior will be
                                                      6. How might revisions to the                                Before including your address, phone                               hosting consultation sessions with
                                                    regulations promote economic viability                       number, email address, or other                                      Indian Tribes on this ANPRM We will
                                                    and sustainability in Indian Country?                        personal information in your                                         accept both oral and written
                                                      7. What services do Tribes currently                       comment—including personal                                           communications at these consultation
                                                    provide to individuals or entities doing                     identifying information—please be                                    sessions.
                                                    business in Indian Country and what                          aware that your comment may be made                                    The following table lists dates and
                                                    role do tax revenues play in providing                       publically available at any time. While                              tentative locations for the consultations.
                                                    those services?                                              you may ask in your comment that we                                  Specifics on the venue for each location
                                                      In addition to receiving comments                          withhold your personal identifying                                   will be provided in a subsequent
                                                    through the Federal eRulemaking Portal,                      information from public review, we                                   Federal Register notice.

                                                                                 Date                                                     Time (local time zone)                                                    Location

                                                    Thursday, February 23, 2017 ....................................     8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Seattle area.
                                                    Tuesday, February 28, 2017 .....................................     8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Southeastern U.S.
                                                    Thursday, March 2, 2017 ..........................................   8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Southern California.
                                                    Tuesday, March 7, 2017 ...........................................   8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Billings, Montana.
                                                    Thursday, March 9, 2017 ..........................................   8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Rapid City, South Dakota.
                                                    Tuesday, March 14, 2017 .........................................    8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Prior Lake, Minnesota.
                                                    Thursday, March 16, 2017 ........................................    8:30   a.m.–12:00   p.m   .................................................   Northeastern U.S.



                                                    Background                                                   taxation of traders and activities                                   authority to make rules specifying the
                                                       The Department is considering                             conducted by traders and purchasers                                  kind and quantity of goods that may be
                                                    whether to propose a rule that would                         can impede a Tribe’s ability to attract                              sold to Indians and the prices at which
                                                    comprehensively update 25 CFR part                           investment to Indian lands where such                                such goods shall be sold. Under 25
                                                    140 (Licensed Indian Traders) to                             investment and participation are critical                            U.S.C. 262, Persons permitted to trade
                                                    modernize the implementation of the                          to the vitality of Tribal economies.                                 with Indians, the Department has the
                                                    Indian Trader statutes consistent with                       Tribal communities continue to struggle                              authority to establish rules and
                                                    the Federal policies of Tribal self-                         with unmet needs, such as in their                                   regulations governing trade on Indian
                                                    government and self-determination. The                       schools and housing, as well as                                      reservations for the protection of the
                                                    current Indian Trader regulations were                       economic development, to name a few.                                 Indians.
                                                    promulgated in 1957, revised in 1965,                        Moreover, beyond the operation of their                                 The Department acknowledges the
                                                    and modified in 1984 in a piecemeal                          governments, Tribes continually pursue                               comprehensive Federal regulation of
                                                    fashion. The current regulations largely                     funding for infrastructure, roads, dams,                             Indian traders in some areas of Indian
                                                    reflect policies that ignore Tribal self-                    irrigation systems and water delivery.                               Country, but also notes that many Tribes
                                                    determination and the growth of Tribal                       Thus, the Department solicits                                        currently regulate trade occurring
                                                    economies.                                                   information under this ANPRM about                                   within their jurisdictions under Tribal
                                                       Congress granted the Department                           how revisions to the regulations could                               laws and authority, often without
                                                    broad and comprehensive authority to                         promote economic viability and                                       Federal involvement. The Department
                                                    regulate trade in Indian Country by                          sustainability in Indian Country.                                    also acknowledges its trust
                                                    determining the proper persons to be                                                                                              responsibility to Tribes and solicits
                                                                                                                 Description of the Information
                                                    ‘‘Indian traders.’’ See 25 U.S.C. 261 et                                                                                          information on whether there is a need
                                                                                                                 Requested
                                                    seq.; see also 25 U.S.C. 9. The                                                                                                   for updated regulations addressing a
                                                    Department would seek to implement                             We are particularly interested in                                  modern approach to the Federal role
                                                    these responsibilities in a manner that                      receiving comments on the following                                  concerning trade occurring in Indian
                                                    reflects the current Nation-to-Nation                        questions relating to revisions of the 25                            Country.
                                                    relationship with Tribes should the                          CFR part 140 we may develop                                             2. Are there certain components of the
                                                    Department propose a rule that updates                       concerning trade occurring in Indian                                 existing rule that should be kept, and if
                                                    25 CFR part 140. The Department                              Country:                                                             so, why?
                                                    recognizes that many Tribes have                               1. Should the Federal government                                      Should the Department conclude that
                                                    enacted comprehensive laws concerning                        address trade occurring in Indian                                    there is a need for revisions to the
                                                    economic activity occurring on Tribal                        Country through an updated 25 CFR                                    existing rule, the Department seeks
                                                    lands and that Tribal courts often retain                    part 140, and why?                                                   comments as to which parts, if any, of
                                                    jurisdiction over Indian traders. This                         We are seeking views on whether                                    the existing rule should be kept. For
                                                    ANPRM solicits information regarding                         there is a need in Indian Country for the                            instance, where the Department has
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    current Tribal regulatory activity over                      Federal government to revise 25 CFR                                  issued licenses, should there be a
                                                    trade occurring within Indian Country.                       part 140. As mentioned, Congress                                     grandfathering clause for currently valid
                                                       Additionally, the Department                              granted the Department broad authority                               licenses that the Department has issued
                                                    recognizes that dual taxation on Tribal                      to regulate trade in Indian Country.                                 under part 140?
                                                    lands can undermine the Federal                              Specifically, under 25 U.S.C. 261, Power                                Alternatively, if commenters believe
                                                    policies supporting Tribal economic                          to appoint traders with Indians, the                                 there is a need to update 25 CFR part
                                                    development, self-determination, and                         Department of the Interior (previously                               140, and that no components of the
                                                    strong Tribal governments. Dual                              the Commissioner of Indian Affairs) has                              existing rule should be kept, the


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                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 237 / Friday, December 9, 2016 / Proposed Rules                                                89017

                                                    Department requests information as to                      The Department has received                          Dated: December 1, 2016.
                                                    why this should be so. Additionally, the                numerous proposals from various Tribes                Lawrence S. Roberts,
                                                    Department seeks views and proposals                    pertaining to Indian Trader regulation.               Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary—Indian
                                                    on what an entirely new proposed rule                   Many of these proposals suggest that                  Affairs.
                                                    may look like. For instance, if the                     trade regulated under part 140 should                 [FR Doc. 2016–29253 Filed 12–8–16; 8:45 am]
                                                    Department should no longer issue                       include not only commercial activities,               BILLING CODE 4337–15–P
                                                    licenses, what do commenters envision                   but also mineral and energy
                                                    Federal involvement to be?                              development and any form of natural-
                                                       3. How can revisions to the existing                 resources extraction or agriculture.                  DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
                                                    rule ensure that persons who conduct                       Currently, section 140.5(a)(1) of the
                                                    trade are reputable and that there are                  existing rule has the following                       Internal Revenue Service
                                                    mechanisms in place to address traders                  definitions:
                                                    who violate Federal or Tribal law?                         (5) Contract means any agreement                   26 CFR Part 57
                                                       If there is a need to update 25 CFR                  made or under negotiation with any
                                                                                                            Indian for the purchase, transportation               [REG–134438–15]
                                                    part 140, we solicit information and
                                                    suggestions on how revisions to the                     or delivery of goods or supplies.                     RIN 1545–BN10
                                                                                                               (6) Trading means buying, selling,
                                                    existing rule can ensure that there are
                                                                                                            bartering, renting, leasing, permitting               Health Insurance Providers Fee
                                                    reputable actors in Indian Country.
                                                                                                            and any other transaction involving the
                                                    Further, the Department requests                                                                              AGENCY: Internal Revenue Service (IRS),
                                                                                                            acquisition of property or services.
                                                    information and suggestions on                             (7) Commercial trading means any                   Treasury.
                                                    revisions to the existing rule to ensure                trading transaction where an employee                 ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.
                                                    that violations of Federal or Tribal law                engages in the business of buying or
                                                    are properly addressed. The Department                  selling services or items which he/she is             SUMMARY:   This document contains
                                                    acknowledges that many Tribes have                      trading.                                              proposed regulations that would modify
                                                    comprehensive schemes in place                                                                                the current definition of ‘‘net premiums
                                                                                                            The Department seeks comments on
                                                    regulating traders conducting business                                                                        written’’ for purposes of the fee imposed
                                                                                                            whether the definitions of contract,
                                                    within their jurisdiction.                                                                                    by section 9010 of the Patient Protection
                                                                                                            trading, and commercial trading should
                                                       4. How do Tribes currently regulate                                                                        and Affordable Care Act, as amended.
                                                                                                            be revised, or struck in their entirety,
                                                    trade in Indian Country, and how might                                                                        The proposed regulations will affect
                                                                                                            and why.
                                                    revisions to 25 CFR part 140 help Tribes                   Additionally, the current definitions              persons engaged in the business of
                                                    regulate trade in Indian Country?                       do not define the type of trader                      providing health insurance for United
                                                       As mentioned, the Department                         conducting business with an Indian                    States health risks.
                                                    recognizes that many Tribes have                        Tribe. The draft proposals the                        DATES: Comments and requests for a
                                                    enacted comprehensive laws concerning                   Department has received recommend                     public hearing must be received by
                                                    economic activity occurring on Tribal                   that the revised rule apply to any person             March 9, 2017.
                                                    lands and that many Tribal courts retain                conducting trade in Indian Country,                   ADDRESSES: Send submissions to:
                                                    jurisdiction over Indian traders. For                   including non-Indians. The Department
                                                    example, the Department is aware that                                                                         CC:PA:LPD:PR (REG–134438–15), room
                                                                                                            solicits comments on whether an                       5203, Internal Revenue Service, PO Box
                                                    some Tribes have required disclosure of                 updated part 140 should define who the
                                                    violations of business licenses and of                                                                        7604, Ben Franklin Station, Washington,
                                                                                                            rule would apply to and whether or not                DC 20044. Submissions may be hand-
                                                    enforcement actions taken by a Federal,                 this definition should broadly include
                                                    Tribal, or State entity for trade-related                                                                     delivered Monday through Friday
                                                                                                            any person conducting trade within                    between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
                                                    activity. Tribes have also required the                 Indian Country.
                                                    disclosure of any pending lawsuits                                                                            to CC:PA:LPD:PR (REG–134438–15),
                                                                                                               6. How might revisions to the                      Courier’s Desk, Internal Revenue
                                                    involving the person and the business,                  regulations promote economic viability
                                                    and disclosure of tax liens against the                                                                       Service, 1111 Constitution Avenue NW,
                                                                                                            and sustainability in Indian Country?                 Washington, DC 20224, or sent
                                                    business and other unsatisfied                             The Department is interested in
                                                    judgments. Other items that Tribes have                                                                       electronically, via the Federal
                                                                                                            receiving feedback on how revisions to                eRulemaking portal at
                                                    required include a Federal employer                     the trade regulations could facilitate
                                                    identification number, a State                                                                                www.regulations.gov (IRS REG–134438–
                                                                                                            economic activity in Indian country and               15)
                                                    registration number, insurance or                       tribal economic self-sufficiency.
                                                    bonding information, copies of all                         7. What services do Tribes currently               FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                    licenses (state, county, city or Tribal)                provide to individuals or entities doing              Concerning the proposed regulations,
                                                    currently held by the business, and                     business in Indian Country and what                   Rachel S. Smith, (202) 317–6855;
                                                    affiliation with any other businesses.                  role do tax revenues play in providing                concerning submissions of comments
                                                       With this in mind, the Department                    such services?                                        and request for a hearing, Regina
                                                    requests information on how Tribes                         The Department recognizes that                     Johnson, (202) 317–6901 (not toll-free
                                                    currently regulate trade within their                   Tribes provide a range of services to                 numbers).
                                                    jurisdiction. The Department requests                   Indians and non-Indians doing business                SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                    specific information and suggestions,                   within their Indian Country. The
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    including language on how the Federal                   Department seeks comments identifying                 Background
                                                    government can bolster those Tribes that                the types of services offered, such as law              Section 9010 of the Patient Protection
                                                    currently comprehensively regulate                      enforcement, food sanitation and health               and Affordable Care Act (PPACA),
                                                    trade, as well as those Tribes that do not              inspections, transportation and other                 Public Law 111–148 (124 Stat. 119
                                                    do so presently.                                        infrastructure, etc. The Department also              (2010)), as amended by section 10905 of
                                                       5. What types of trade should be                     seeks information on whether and to                   PPACA, and as further amended by
                                                    regulated and what types of traders                     what extent Tribes are able to rely on                section 1406 of the Health Care and
                                                    should be subject to regulation?                        tax revenues to provide such services.                Education Reconciliation Act of 2010,


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Document Created: 2018-02-14 09:03:44
Document Modified: 2018-02-14 09:03:44
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionAdvance notice of proposed rulemaking; solicitation of comments.
DatesComments must be submitted on or before April 10, 2017.
ContactElizabeth Appel, Director, Office of Regulatory Affairs and Collaborative Action, Office of the Assistant Secretary--Indian Affairs; telephone (202) 273-4680, [email protected]
FR Citation81 FR 89015 
RIN Number1076-AF30

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