1947_session laws_979_3
CHAPTER 978 AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE MEMBERS OF THE EAST- ERN BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA TO HOLD, INHERIT AND ALIENATE PROPERTY, AND FURTHER SECURING TO THEM THE RIGHT OF LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT.  The General Assembly of North Carolina do enact:
Any person who is a lineal descendant of any kona fide member of such Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who is a member of said band and who is domiciled on the lands of the said Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians shall be eligible to hold any elective or appointive office or position within the tribal organization, including the position of Chief, and may be elected or appointed and shall thereafter serve in such manner and for such time as a majority of the accredited membership of such Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians may decide at any election held for such purpose or appointment made by the accredited officials of said Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.