Tribal Energy Resource Agreements

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is amending its regulations governing Tribal Energy Resource Agreements (TERAs) between the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) and Indian Tribes. Tribes, at their discretion, may apply for TERAs. TERAs allow Tribes to enter into leases, business agreements, and rights-of-way for energy resource development on Tribal land without the Secretary's review and approval. This final rule updates the regulations to incorporate changes recently made by Congress to the Act authorizing TERAs. This rule also establishes how, as an alternative to entering into a TERA, a Tribe may obtain certification of a Tribal Energy Development Organization (TEDO).