Lawmakers urge no vote on Lumbee recognition bill

Update: The bill passed this afternoon following a lengthy debate and four votes. The first debate was a closed rule to prevent amendments on the bill. After the rule was called to order [Roll Call], it passed by a 214 to 193 vote [Roll Call].

The second debate was on the merits of the bill. As it l was headed to a final vote, Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-North Carolina) made a motion to recommit the bill, to send it back to the House Natural Resources Committee with new language. The motion failed by a 152 to 237 vote [Roll Call]..

The final vote was on passage. The House approved the bill by a 256 to 128 vote [Roll Call].

Three members of North Carolina's Congressional delegation plan to vote no on a bill to recognize the Lumbee Tribe.

Rep. Heath Shuler (R), Rep. Patrick McHenry (R) and Rep. Walter Jones (R) wrote a letter to their colleagues urging them to vote against H.R.65. Rep. Christopher Shays (R-Connecticut) also signed the letter.

Debate is set on the bill this afternoon. The House session will be broadcast on C-SPAN.

Get the Story:
3 NC legislators against Lumbee act (The Charlotte News & Observer 6/7)
More Lumbee foster parents sought (The Fayetteville Observder 6/7)

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

Recognition Bill:
Lumbee Recognition Act (H.R.65)

Relevant Links:
Official Lumbee Tribe website - http://www.lumbeetribe.com

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