Detailed Summary

Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2009 - Extends federal recognition to the following Indian tribes (the tribes) in Virginia and establishes their relationship with the federal government as described below: (1) the Chickahominy Tribe; (2) the Chickahominy Indian Tribe--Eastern Division; (3) the Upper Mattaponi Tribe; (4) the Rappahannock Tribe, Inc.; (5) the Monacan Indian Nation; and (6) the Nansemond Indian Tribe.

Makes the tribes and their members eligible for all services and benefits provided by the federal government to federally recognized Indian tribes. Establishes the service area of each tribe and requirements for each tribe regarding its membership roll, governing documents, and governing body.

Requires the Secretary of the Interior, on request of any of the tribes, to take specified lands into trust for the benefit of that tribe, to be considered part of that tribe's reservation. Prohibits the tribes from conducting gaming activities.

Prohibits this Act from affecting the hunting, fishing, trapping, gathering, and water rights of the tribes and their members.

Requires Virginia to exercise jurisdiction over criminal offenses and civil actions on lands in Virginia that are owned by or held in trust for the Tribe. Authorizes the Secretary to accept all or any portion of Virginia's jurisdiction over such offenses and actions on verification by the Secretary of a tribe's certification that the tribe possesses the capacity to reassume such jurisdiction.

Status of the Legislation

Latest Major Action: 10/22/2009: Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Indian Affairs. Ordered to be reported with an amendment favorably.

Points in Favor

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Points Against

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