A bill that would compensate the Spokane Tribe of Washington for land flooded by the Grand Coulee Dam seemed ready to pass Congress but has now run into opposition from local officials and landowners.

H.R.1797 passed the House by a voice vote on July 25. It was placed on the Senate calendar but now faces a delay in order to address the concerns over jurisdiction, management and access to Lake Roosevelt.

The bill would compensate the tribe for land losses and set up a trust fund. Some land currently managed by the Bureau of Reclamation would be transferred to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, giving the tribe more say over what happens.

Get the Story:
Plan to compensate Spokane Tribe hits snag (AP 9/20)
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Get the Bill:
Spokane Tribe of Indians of the Spokane Reservation Grand Coulee Dam Equitable Compensation Settlement Act (H.R.1797)

Relevant Links:
Spokane Tribe - http://www.spokanetribe.com