ME LD813

Establishes the Maine Commission on Native American Indian Affairs, a 5-member panel appointed by the Governor from candidates prepared by the University of Maine System Chancellor, with members serving 2-year terms and receiving legislative per diem for up to 6 meetings annually

Creates a formal application process for Native American Indian tribes seeking state recognition, requiring demonstration of geographic residence in Maine, kinship ancestry to Maine or regional indigenous people, historical tribal connections, and organizational structure for cultural preservation

Requires a 3-member expert review panel to evaluate each application, with the commission making recommendations to the Legislature's Judiciary Committee within one year of application filing

Grants state recognition either through direct legislative approval or automatically if the Legislature fails to act within 2 years of receiving a favorable commission recommendation

State recognition does not grant land claims, real estate rights, or gambling rights beyond existing state law, and recognized tribes remain fully subject to all Maine laws