New law promotes state-tribal relations

SANTA FE (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson on Thursday signed a bill designed to promote cooperation between state government and Indian tribes.

The measure requires every cabinet-level state agency to designate a tribal liaison who would report directly to the head of the agency.

It also orders state agencies to develop policies promoting better communication and culturally appropriate delivery of services.

Joe Garcia, chairman of the All Indian Pueblo Council, says the signing of this bill marks a new era in state-tribal relations, and New Mexico is now on the map as a guiding light for the rest of the country.

The bill also mandates an annual state-tribal summit between the New Mexico governor and Indian leaders.