Virginia recognition bill clears House committee

Thursday, April 26, 2007  

Six Virginia tribes moved closer to federal recognition thanks to the actions of the House Natural Resources Committee.

The bill passed by a voice vote. The committee approved an amendment to place the tribe under state laws for purposes of gaming.

The six tribes were the first to greet Europeans who settled at Jamestown. They signed treaties with the British government and received land for reservations but were never recognized by the United States.

The tribes could go through the Bureau of Indian Affairs recognition process but face obstacles due to state laws that outlawed people from identifying themselves as Indian. The state modified and destroyed records that would help the tribes.

Get the Story:
Va. tribes closer to federal recognition (The Hampton Road Daily Press 4/26)

Committee Notice:
Full Committee Legislative Hearing: H.R. 1294 and H.R. 65 (April 18, 2007)

Recognition Bill:
Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act

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