Seneca Nation President Barry E. Snyder Sr. is optimistic about
a letter he received from Gov. David A. Paterson yesterday, stating that he
would like to meet with Snyder concerning tax issues in order to improve
relations between New York State and the Nation. Paterson said in the letter that his goal is to create a mutually productive relationship.
Noting that the law he signed late last year faces court challenges, the governor said that while those move through the courts, the two sides have an opportunity to open productive discussions.
“As I have said publicly, it is my desire to improve the relationship between the state and the sovereign Indian nations located within the state,” Gov. Paterson wrote in the letter. “I believe that this outcome can only be achieved through respectful and informed dialogue.”
In light of the governor’s letter, Snyder said that Seneca
actions considered a few weeks ago may be reconsidered. The Seneca president shared the governor’s words during a rally that took place yesterday off of the thruway on Route 438.
“I am encouraged by
Gov. Paterson’s overture as it responds to the Nation’s desire for peaceful
discourse,” President Snyder said. “But we are intent on meaningful dialogue
and a much improved relationship with the state on the issue of attempted
taxation. Both sides have shown, in other areas, that they can have mutually
fruitful arrangements.”
From the governor’s letter:
“During our meeting on December 5, 2008, I expressed to you
my interest in meeting again to discuss issues of mutual concern between our
two governments. This letter is to confirm my interest in commencing such a
dialogue soon.”
“I am aware that there are several lawsuits pending in the
state and federal courts which could have the potential for altering the legal status
quo governing cigarette deliveries to the Seneca Nation and Seneca citizens. I
am also mindful that these lawsuits may be stayed for a period of time, which
can give us a chance to discuss the important issues of mutual concern related
to the sale in your territories of untaxed cigarettes to non-Indians.
“As these cases move forward in the days and weeks ahead, I
believe it is critical that we maintain an open line of communication between
our two governments so that appropriate steps can be taken to ensure our
dialogue on issues of mutual concern can proceed.”
“As I expressed to you in December, I am serious about
establishing a new and mutually productive relationship,” the governor wrote.
According to Snyder, “This letter provides some assurance that the governor will
embrace dialogue over enforcement action regardless of what happens in the courts.
The letter, read in concert with the litigation results thus far, lead me to
believe that the effect of the governor’s signing of the tobacco tax bill will
not likely have any effect on the ability of the Nation and its citizens to
obtain tobacco products in the future until the Nation and the state have
concluded talks.”