Executive order: State permitting agencies must consult Tribal Nations

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Governor Ralph Northam signed an executive order Thursday directing state permitting agencies to consult with Tribal Nations when considering proposals for development.

The goal is to protect environmental, historic and cultural resources by being aware of any concerns the tribes may have.

“The Commonwealth has an important and unique government-to-government relationship with Virginia’s Tribal Nations,” said Northam. “In recent years, we have worked to address past wrongs and strengthen our relationships with Virginia’s Tribes. Tribal Nations have always been integral to the cultural and historic fabric of Virginia, and this order is among the first steps that will affirm tribal sovereignty and enhance relationships between our governments.”

Four different state agencies are now required to establish a Tribal Consultation policy within 90 days.

“This order helps advance the relationship between the Commonwealth and our tribes, after the United States recognized our sovereignty in 2018, and affirms the Commonwealth’s obligations under treaties stretching back more than 300 years,” said Anne Richardson, Chief of the Rappahannock Tribe.

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