(1) This Code replaces and supersedes all prior personnel policies, codes or other regulations that relate to the subject matter governed by this Code. Any personnel policy or other implementation of this Code must be read to be consistent with the content and intention of this Code. However, nothing in this Code is intended to supersede a valid contractual obligation or grant agreement into which the Tribe has entered.

(2) This Code governs employment of all government employees except those appointed directly by Council. Certain employees have different means of redress for Code violations. Regular (non-appointed) employees may use the complaint processes as described in the Cowlitz Employee Handbook.

(3) Nothing in this Code, including references to state or federal laws, waives sovereign immunity. References to state, federal, or other law are for illustrative purposes only and are not evidence of the applicability of any law that does not otherwise apply.

(4) This Code does not provide a cause of action against any individuals. Claims arising from this Code can be brought only against the Tribe as an entity.

(5) All government employees and managers are expected to comply with this Code and the Government may hold employees and managers accountable for non-compliance through the disciplinary procedures. [Res. 22-120, 2022.]