What is Tero

1983
The Three Affiliated Tribes Council passed a Tribal Resolution that authorized the establishment of TERO within the Employment and Training Department of the Three Affiliated Tribes.
The Tribal Council approved a resolution and ordinance that enabled the tribe to exercise their inherent sovereign powers by imposing Indian Preference on employers working on or near the jurisdictional boundaries of the Three Affiliated Tribes.
Although Tribal ordinances are sufficient, it has been found that TEROs can also be utilized in monitoring and enforcing existing federal Indian Preference laws and regulations.

About Tero

The MHA Nation Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO) was established to ensure that the economic development occurring on tribal lands results in direct and lasting benefits for the citizens of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation. Through the enforcement of the TERO Ordinance—tribal law grounded in the Indian Preference Act—TERO secures employment, training, and contracting opportunities for qualified Native Americans while protecting the health, safety, and rights of our workforce. We advocate not only for jobs, but for dignity, prosperity, and fairness in every aspect of labor and enterprise across the reservation.

About the TERO Commission

The MHA Nation TERO Commission is a governing body appointed by the Tribal Business Council to provide policy oversight, long-term vision, and accountability for the TERO program. The Commission meets regularly to:

– Review enforcement efforts and cases
– Evaluate the effectiveness of Indian Preference implementation
– Update ordinances and policy as needed
– Ensure TERO aligns with the Nation’s economic development goals

The Commission does not manage day-to-day operations—that responsibility lies with the TERO Office. However, the Commission ensures that the office has the tools, authority, and strategic direction it needs to serve the people effectively.

Mission, Vision, and Values

About the MHA Tero

Mission

To protect and advance the employment, training, and economic rights of MHA Nation tribal members through the enforcement of Indian Preference and the responsible development of tribal resources.

Vision

A thriving and self-determined MHA Nation where all tribal citizens have access to meaningful employment, business opportunities, and safe, dignified work environments.

Core Values

– Sovereignty: Upholding the Nation’s sovereign authority to govern employment and contracting on tribal lands.
– Equity: Ensuring fair and just access to opportunities for all qualified tribal members.
– Accountability: Holding employers and contractors responsible for compliance with tribal law.
– Integrity: Conducting our work with professionalism, respect, and transparency.
– Empowerment: Building capacity in our citizens and businesses through support, advocacy, and education.