Article XIV – Savings Clause and Transitional Provisions

Section 1. Savings Clause. All actions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians adopted before the effective date of this Constitution shall continue in full force and effect to the extent that they are consistent with this Constitution.

Section 2. Transitional Provisions. The current members of the Tribal Council, the Principal Chief and Vice-Chief, and the Judges and Justices of the Cherokee Court system serving at the time of the adoption of this Constitution shall continue to serve in their respective offices for the duration of their present term at which time the applicable provisions of this Constitution shall control.

Section 3. Term Limit Exemption for Incumbents. The limitations placed on the terms of service by this Constitution shall not be calculated based on prior service for any incumbent holding office at the time of adoption.

(January 2022 draft + commentary to view the corresponding explanation.)