Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act
Summary
The Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act directs the administrative transfer of approximately 72 acres of land from the Forest Service to the Department of the Interior. This land will be held in trust for the benefit of the Quinault Indian Nation. The Act specifies that the land becomes part of the Quinault Indian Reservation and is subject to federal laws and regulations governing trust lands.
Expected Effects
The Act will expand the Quinault Indian Reservation by 72 acres. It prohibits gaming activities on the transferred land. The Act also clarifies that it does not impact existing treaty rights and outlines the responsibilities of the Secretary of the Interior regarding hazardous materials on the land.
Potential Benefits
- Provides additional land for the Quinault Indian Nation, potentially supporting housing, economic development, or cultural preservation.
- Clarifies the administrative responsibilities for the land, ensuring it is managed in accordance with federal trust land policies.
- Reaffirms existing treaty rights, protecting the Nation's established legal claims.
- Addresses environmental concerns by requiring disclosure of hazardous substances.
- Supports tribal self-determination by expanding the land base under tribal control.
Potential Disadvantages
- The prohibition of gaming on the land may limit potential economic development opportunities for the Quinault Indian Nation.
- The Act does not require remediation of hazardous materials, potentially leaving the tribe with environmental liabilities.
- The transfer of land from the Forest Service could potentially impact public access or recreational opportunities, although this is not explicitly stated.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the constitutional principles related to the federal government's relationship with Native American tribes. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with Indian tribes. This Act falls under that power as it manages land held in trust by the federal government for a tribe. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any other constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).