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Managing America: Native American Matters

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Week Ending June 8, 2006

H.R.65 To provide for the recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, and for other purposes.

The Lumbee Indians now in Robeson County, NC descended from the Cheraw and other coastal tribes in that area and have remained a distinct culture. North Carolina recognized the Lumbee as an Indian tribe in 1885 and Congress recognized the Tribe in 1956 but withheld benefits, privileges and immunities given to other Tribes.

This bill extends official recognition and applies all laws and regulations to the Lumbee. Tribal factions in Cumberland, Hoke and Scotland counties are included and other Tribes in the region may also petition for recognition.

Among the rights, benefits, and regulations the Lumbee will now  benefit from and follow are the option to transfer Tribal land to the US government to be held in trust for the Tribe, a prohibition on gaming on Tribal land and accepting North Carolina’s jurisdiction over criminal offenses committed on Tribal land as well as civil actions arising there. Tribes, in Congress’ appropriations process are regularly treated as are municipal and State governments in the areas of infrastructure aid, education aid and other government benefits.

This bill ends the Lumbee efforts towards Federal recognition in 1955. The petition this bill responds to began in 1987. Approximately 53,000 Indians are enrolled in the Lumbee Tribe.

Sponsor:  Rep. Mike McIntyre (D-NC-7^th)

Vote: Passed the House 256 to 128. RC 447 A motion to recommit the bill failed 152 to 237 RC 446

Cost to the taxpayers: “CBO estimates that implementing this legislation would cost the Federal Government $80 million in fiscal year 2008 and about $480 million over the 2008-2012 period”

Earmark Certification:   H.R. 65 does not contain any congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in clause 9(d), 9(e) or 9(f) of rule XXI.

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