Scope. State Government Article, §9.5-309, Annotated Code of Maryland, permits the Commission on Indian Affairs to establish a process by which a Native American tribe, band, group, or clan indigenous to Maryland can apply to the Commission for formal recognition of Maryland Indian status. State Government Article, §9.5-311, Annotated Code of Maryland, requires the Commission to adopt regulations and procedures necessary to carry out the provisions of State Government Article, §9.5-309, Annotated Code of Maryland. These regulations set forth procedures to carry out those provisions. Objectives. For the benefit of Native American tribes, bands, groups, and clans indigenous to Maryland, the objectives of these regulations are to: Clarify their legal status; Acknowledge the contributions made by them to Maryland; Recognize and assist them in their efforts to maintain their cultural identity and traditions; and Provide access for them to federal and State programs available to State-recognized Indian tribes, bands, groups, and clans.