I, Walter J. Hickel, Governor of the State of Alaska, under the authority granted by Article III of the Alaska Constitution and by Alaska Statute 44.17.060, hereby establish the Policy of the State of Alaska on Tribal Government Powers, "Indian Country" and Local Government in Rural Communities for the guidance of state and federal agencies, courts, and the public generally.

The policy of the State of Alaska is that Alaska is one country, one people. The State of Alaska opposes expansion of tribal governmental powers and the creation of "Indian Country" in Alaska.

The State of Alaska recognizes, however, that the laws and procedures for local governments may not adequately meet the needs of Alaska's rural residents. Accordingly, the State of Alaska is committed to improving local government institutions to meet the needs of rural Alaska communities, including those inhabited predominately by Alaska Natives.

Because it is inconsistent with the foregoing, Administrative Order No. 123, dated September 10, 1990, is hereby revoked.

This order takes effect immediately.

DATED at Juneau, Alaska, this 16th day of August, 1991.

By: S/S Walter J. Hickel        
Walter J. Hickel                
Governor of the State of Alaska