Native American Omnibus Act of 2005

The Native American Omnibus Act of 2005 is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to update and streamline various federal laws affecting tribal nations. It increases the limit for tribal business loans from $500 million to $1.5 billion and extends funding for tribal justice systems and legal assistance through 2010. The bill also addresses specific land rights, clarifies tribal jurisdiction over crimes committed on certain lands, and establishes a pilot program to help tribal governments near the U.S. borders with Canada and Mexico coordinate with federal agencies on security and emergency response.

For everyday citizens and tribal members, this act aims to improve economic development by making it easier for Native American-owned businesses to access credit and insurance. It strengthens public safety by clarifying which government—tribal, federal, or state—has the authority to prosecute specific crimes in certain areas. Additionally, the bill protects cultural heritage by expanding the definition of "Native American" under repatriation laws and increasing penalties for the sale of fraudulent Indian arts and crafts.