Relating to state recognition of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas.

HB 4988 formally recognizes the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas as a state-recognized Native American tribe under Texas law. The bill designates the tribe as exercising substantial governmental powers and explicitly grants it eligibility for all state programs, services, and benefits available to other state-recognized tribes. This recognition is implemented through a new Chapter 3102 in the Texas Government Code, creating a legal basis for the tribe's access to state resources. The law takes effect on September 1, 2025.