Babaamaajimowinan (Telling of news in different places)

How Senecas became exempt from taxes on their lands

Ever wonder why Senecas can sell tax-free gasoline and cigarettes in a state where taxes on those items are considered exceptionally high?

It goes back to a treaty signed in 1842 in Buffalo – the Buffalo Creek land treaty.

In that treaty, the Senecas were exempted “from all taxes, and assessments for roads, highways, or any other purpose until such lands shall be sold” on their own land. Using that exemption, Senecas have, over the past decade alone, expanded their wealth and influence to hundreds of millions of dollars. The exemption allowed the Seneca Nation to operate their thriving cigarette and gasoline businesses.

http://www.buffalonews.com/city-region/how-senecas-became-exempt-from-taxes-on-their-lands-20160513

 

Reader Comments(0)