Department of Culture and Community Engagement. Division of Indian Affairs

The agency serves as liaison and promotes positive intergovernmental relations with and between Utah Indian tribes, the Governor's office, federal and state agencies, and local entities. The agency coordinates with the governor's office, the North American Legislative Liaison Committee, and legislative committees to address Indian Affairs' issues and develop policies. The agency meets regularly with the Native American Remains Review Committee to determine ownership and disposition of Native American remains found on state or school trust lands. It monitors Utah and Federal legislation which impacts Utah Indian Tribes and the state of Utah. The agency develops programs and services, provides alternatives, and implements solutions that will allow Indian citizens an opportunity to share in the progress of the state of Utah.

On creation in 1959, the governor appointed the three members of the Indian Affairs Commission. In 1991 (Laws of Utah, Chapter 284), the Division of Indian Affairs was moved under the Department of Community and Economic Development (now Culture and Community Engagement). The division director is appointed by the department director with the approval of the governor (Laws of Utah, 1992, Chapter 190).

The division originally had a director, assistant director, and secretary. A Utah Indian Cooperative Council was created within the division comprised of members appointed by the governor from the various tribes to promote programs to help the tribes and allow Indian citizens an opportunity to share in the progress of the state. An Outreach Subcommittee was created within the Council. A Utah Dineh Committee was also created within the division from the various chapters of the Navajo Tribe, appointed by the governor to direct the expenditures of designated federal monies. (Laws of Utah 1991, Chapter 284; Laws of Utah 1992, Chapter 190).

In 1999 (Laws of Utah, Chapter 50) the Legislature amended the Division of Indian Affairs responsibilities to remove references to the Utah Dineh Committee and the Utah Indian Cooperative Council, along with other language and technical changes.