Spirit Lake nickname resolution reviewed by Attorney General

(WDAY TV) - The Attorney General's office is reviewing the resolution from the Spirit Lake reservation that gives perpetual use of the nickname and logo to UND. The state board is concerned the resolution is not binding and could be reversed.

State board member Grant Shaft says Spirit Lake is a sovereign nation, and has a legal system that's not the same as non-reservations. The board wants to make sure the resolution is legally binding by non-reservation law. Shaft did say the resolution does appear to satisfy the NCAA and board requirements.

"Is that agreement or resolution binding on future councils that would have to be interpreted by our attorney who is the Attorney General."

The board will likely approach the tribe sometime this week or next to discuss signing off on the use, in a way that satisfies the board's legal system as well.

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