Tribes can register as corporations under bill passed by Legislature

Businesses and nonprofits owned by Native American tribes are on their way to be able to register with Utah, just as any other out-of-state business.

The House on Wednesday gave final approval to SB110, which now moves to Gov. Jon Hunstman Jr. for final approval.

"It will help the tribes immensely," said Rep. Bud Bowman, R-Cedar City, before the 67-0 vote.

The bill allows corporations with at least 51 percent tribal ownership register with the state as a foreign entity, just as, say a Nevada business would. Bowman said the bill will help increase exposure and be a tool for economic development.