Bruce Westerman: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 681, introduced by Representative Keating, would authorize the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and Wampanoag…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 681, introduced by Representative Keating, would authorize the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head, both of Massachusetts, to lease lands held in trust for up to 99 years, subject to approval by the Secretary of the Interior. Congress has long recognized that Tribes need the ability to lease their lands to support housing, commercial activity, and community development. While the Indian Long-Term Leasing Act allows leasing of trust lands, longer lease terms have often required Tribe-specific legislation. Over time, Congress has granted 99-year leasing authority to a number of Tribes to accommodate long-term planning and investment. H.R. 681 simply extends that same authority to these two Tribes in Massachusetts. The bill ensures these Tribes are treated consistently with others that have already received 99-year leasing authority. By providing parity and leasing authority, H.R. 681 supports local economic planning and development and promotes fairness and opportunity for these Tribal communities while maintaining Federal oversight through secretarial approval.”