Eni Faleomavaega: “The purpose of S. 349 is to extend the authorization of the Navajo-Hopi Relocation Housing Program through fiscal year…”

“The purpose of S. 349 is to extend the authorization of the Navajo-Hopi Relocation Housing Program through fiscal year 1997. The Navajo-Hopi Land Dispute Settlement Act was enacted in 1974 to resolve land disputes between the tribes dating back over a century. The act required the partition of the disputed lands and relocation of members of each tribe from the lands partitioned to the other tribe. This bill does nothing to change the Settlement Act or the lands addressed by it. It simply allows for an extension of time for additional families to relocate. As is often the case, I think it is safe to say that neither tribe is thrilled with this bill, but both accept it as necessary to the process which I hope will come to an end soon.”