The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs convenes for a business meeting on November 20, 2024.

By a vote of 7-4, the committee approved the nomination of Patrice Kunesh to be Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission, the federal agency that oversees the $41.9 billion tribal casino industry. The four “No” votes came from Republicans, including Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), who showed up in person to voice his objection to a nominee chosen by outgoing President Joe Biden, a Democrat.

A confirmation hearing took place on September 18, with Kunesh as the sole witness. Her nomination can now be considered by the full U.S. Senate.

The committee also approved two bills. They follow:

• S.4643, the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024. The bill settles the water rights of the Pueblo of Zuni in New Mexico and authorizes $685 million in federal funding to support the tribe’s water resources, including Zuni Salt Lake, a sacred place. A hearing took place on September 25, featuring testimony from Governor Arden Kucate of the Zuni Tribe.

• S.4998, the Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024. The bill settles the water rights of the Navajo Nation to the Rio San José Stream System in New Mexico. A hearing took place on September 25, featuring testimony from President Buu Nygren of the Navajo Nation.

Both bills can now be considered by the full Senate.

Business Meeting to consider the Nomination of Patrice H. Kunesh, of Minnesota, to be Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission, S. 4643 & S. 4998 (November 20, 2024)