MOUNT PLEASANT -- Attorney General Mike Cox is objecting to a major legal settlement that would grant new rights to an Indian tribe and its members living in mid-Michigan's Isabella County.
In a court filing this week, Cox says the agreement represents a "sea change" in the relationship between Michigan and the Saginaw Chippewa tribe.
Cox says the public needs more time to digest the deal, which involves law enforcement, taxation and other issues in seven townships.
The tribe sued Michigan in 2005, saying the land was part of its original reservation.
Cox is especially concerned about restrictions on what police officers can do if an investigation involves a tribal member.
The agreement also relieves tribal members of paying state income tax if they live on tribal land.
