A bill to reaffirm the membership rights of the Osage Nation of Oklahoma was passed by the U.S. House on Tuesday.

The bill needs Senate approval before moving to the White House. Tribal leaders said they were hopeful President Bush would sign it into law.

The tribe is currently subject to a 1906 law that restricts membership to those with an interest in the tribal mineral estate. The bill would ensure the tribe can follow its own criteria.

Get the Story:
Osage tribal change clears House (The Daily Oklahoman 6/2)
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Osage bill passes House (The Native American Times 6/1)

Get the Bill:
To reaffirm the inherent sovereign rights of the Osage Tribe to determine its membership and form of government. (H.R.2912)

Relevant Links:
Osage Nation - http://www.osagetribe.com

Related Stories:
House committee approves Osage membership bill (05/06)