SC Oklahoma News

Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) testified before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs today, advocating for his legislation, H.R. 1208. The bill aims to amend the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 and reaffirm the authority of the Secretary of the Interior to take land into trust for Indian tribes.

Following his testimony, Congressman Cole issued a statement emphasizing the historical context and necessity of trust lands for Tribal communities. "As a result of the Indian Removal Act, many Tribes were forcibly removed from their land and relocated to unknown areas that provided them no opportunity to prosper," said Cole. He highlighted that trust lands are vital for energy production, essential government services, agriculture, and infrastructure development within Tribal communities.

Cole also addressed the impact of the Supreme Court’s Carcieri v. Salazar decision, which questioned the authority granted by the Indian Reorganization Act regarding land trusts. The ruling created two classes of Indian tribes: those recognized when the law was enacted in 1934 who could have land in trust and those who could not.

"This two-class system is truly detrimental to so many Native communities," stated Cole. "It makes it harder for them to manage and expand their territory and puts millions of dollars’ worth of trust land in legal limbo."

Cole asserted that H.R. 1208 would rectify this issue by restoring sovereign rights to all federally recognized tribes regarding land trusts. He urged continued legislative action on this bill to protect Tribal interests and avoid costly litigation.

To view Congressman Cole's testimony, click here.

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