Richard Pombo: “Mr. Speaker, S. 523, the Native American Technical Corrections Act of 2003, makes over 20 changes to current law to…”

“Mr. Speaker, S. 523, the Native American Technical Corrections Act of 2003, makes over 20 changes to current law to assist Indian tribes with matters that may seem relatively small to some of us but are quite important to individual tribes across this country. I am pleased we are able to bring this legislation to the floor today. Tribal leaders from various regions have flown to Washington, D.C., for meetings, conferences and interaction with their congressional representatives. The continual input from tribes and their willingness to work directly with the Congress as sovereign entities on a government-to-government basis brings us to our debate and vote on S. 523. Specifically, the legislation will make technical corrections to laws relating to Native Americans, including the extension of expiring authorizations, amendments to statutes relating to particular Indian tribes, and modifications to certain Native American programs. It makes these beneficial changes in areas relating to tribal sovereignty and culture and will encourage economic development.”