What is a tribal-state compact?
A tribal-state compact is an agreement entered into between a state government and a tribal government.
What is a sovereign nation?
A sovereign nation is a self-governing territory. It is not subject to laws of other states or nations. A sovereign nation is an independent political entity with:
- A defined territory
- A permanent population
- A government that holds full authority to manage its internal affairs and conduct foreign relations without interference from other states or nations
How many tribal nations are recognized in Connecticut?
Connecticut has five indigenous Indian tribes recognized by statute:
- Schaghticoke
- Paucatuck Eastern Pequot
- Mashantucket Pequot
- Mohegan
- Golden Hill Paugussett
Two of the tribal nations in Connecticut have achieved federal recognition, the Mashantucket Pequot by act of Congress in 1983, and the Mohegan by federal Bureau of Indian Affairs procedures in 1994.
Who can enter into a tribal compact on behalf of the State of Connecticut?
Only the Governor may enter into a tribal compact on behalf of the State of Connecticut.
Do tribal-state compacts exist in Connecticut?
Yes, the State of Connecticut entered into tribal-state gaming compacts with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Mohegan Tribe.
Can the State of Connecticut enter into a tribal-state cannabis compact?
The Responsible and Equitable Regulation of Adult‑Use Cannabis Act, passed in June 2021, allows the Governor of Connecticut to enter into an agreement (called a compact) with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, or both. This agreement would coordinate state and tribal rules about possessing, producing, delivering, processing, and using cannabis.
A tribal-state cannabis compact would cover:
- How criminal and civil laws are enforced
- Rules for possessing, producing, delivering, processing, or using cannabis
- Tax laws and regulations related to cannabis
The compact would also include how the tribe will:
- Protect public health and safety
- Ensure security at cannabis facilities on tribal land (such as production, processing, testing, or retail sites)
- Regulate cannabis-related business that moves between tribal land and other areas of the state
(Connecticut General Statutes § 21a-422j)