Federal Indian Law & Tribal Law Research

The Te-Moak Tribal Council exercises overall jurisdiction over its Bands--Battle Mountain Colony, Elko Colony, Wells Colony, South Fork Reservation--and all tribal lands; Bands exercise limited authority over local matters. Tribal Elections are held every three years.

In 1936, the Indian Reorganization Act officially recognized the Washoe Tribe as a Federally-Recognized Tribe. At this time, the Washoe Tribe formed a Tribal Council consisting of seven members with three representatives from Dresslerville and four representatives that lived off-reservation. The Washoe Tribal Council is now made up of 12 people: two representatives from each of the four communities--Carson, Dresslerville, Hung-A-Lel-Ti (Woodfords Community), and Stewart--two representatives that live off-reservation, one representative from the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, and one elected Chairperson.

"Our mission...is to promote the rich culture of Native Americans, and to provide services that improve the social & economic self-sufficiency of the diverse populations living in the greater Las Vegas area."

"The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) was created in 1978 by the federal government in order to re-establish tribal authority over the adoption of Native American children."

Department of Health & Human Services Tribal Liaisons

Its mission is to “study matters affecting the social and economic welfare and well-being of American Indians residing in Nevada, including, but not limited to, matters and problems relating to Indian affairs and to federal and state control, responsibility, policy, and operations affecting such Indians.” The NIC lists tribal directories, contacts, news, and a plethora of additional resources.

"The Indian Law Project of Nevada Legal Services, based out of the Reno office, represents Nevada’s Native American tribes and their members in a range of issues."

Document listing Chairpersons of the 27 Tribal Nations listed and also the Executive Directors or CEOs of four Tribal Organizations.

Mission Statement: to enhance the well-being of American Indians and Alaskan Natives, and other underserved members of the community through health care, social services, cultural awareness and education.