House subcommittee weighs bills affecting Oregon tribal lands

Thursday, July 26, 2012  

The House Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska Native Affairs held a hearing on Tuesday on land bills affecting Oregon tribes.

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians were all terminated by Congress. They were subsequently restored to federal recognition and have laid claim to what is known as the Coast Reservation, which was set aside through executive order for various Oregon tribes.

As a result, H.R. 6141 came under fire at the hearing. The bill makes it easier for the Siletz to acquire trust land but leaders of the other two tribes say it would trample over their claims to the Coast Reservation.

On the other hand, H.R. 726, did not draw complaints. The bill also intends to help Grand Ronde with land acquisitions.

Get the Story:
Commissioners weigh in on tribal disputes (The McMinnville News-Register 7/25)

Committee Notice:
Legislative Hearing on H.R. 726, H.R. 3319 and H.R. 6141 - House Committee on Natural Resources (July 24, 2012)

Related Stories:
BIA to testify at House Indian and Alaska Native Affairs hearing (7/23)
Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska Native Affairs plans hearing (7/20)