Mass. town argues for jurisdiction over tribe

MONDAY, JULY 21, 2003

A Massachusetts town and a taxpayer's association want a judge to subject the Gay Head Wampanoag Tribe to local zoning laws.

At issue is the tribe's settlement act, which confers state jurisdiction over tribal lands. Dukes County Superior Court judge this provision, however, doesn't waive the tribe's sovereign immunity.

The town of Aquinnah took the tribe to court for building shed and pier at a tribal shellfish hatchery without a local permit.

Get the Story:
Islanders appeal ruling on tribe (The Cape Cod Times 7/19)

Get the Decision:
Town of Aquinnah v. Gay Head Wampanoag Tribe (June 11, 2003)