Indian Affairs promotes positive intergovernmental relations and the government to government relationship between the State of Utah and Utah's American Indian tribes under UCA Sec. 9-1-101; serves as liaison and promote positive intergovernmental relations with and between Utah Indian Tribes, Office of the Governor, federal and state agencies, and local entities; coordinates with the Governor's office to address Indian Affairs' issues and develop policies; coordinate with the Native American Legislative Liaison Committee to develop Indian legislation and address Indian Affairs' issues; works closely with the Native American Remains Review Committee to determine disposition of human remains found on state or school trust lands.; and monitors Utah and Federal Indian legislation which impacts Utah Indian Tribes and the state of Utah. Develop programs and services, provide alternatives, and implement solutions that will allow Indian citizens an opportunity to share in the progress of the state of Utah.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of 2010 the estimated population of American Indians and Alaskan Natives, including those of more than one race, was 5.2 million, or 1.7 percent of the total U.S. population at the time.