John Hansen: “It is interesting that some have stated that H.R. 4103 would establish precedent by selling religiously significant land…”

“It is interesting that some have stated that H.R. 4103 would establish precedent by selling religiously significant land and that Native Americans will want to do the same thing. Opponents who have raised this really have not looked into it very hard, because claims that this will lead to Native Americans wanting to purchase lands that are of national significance are unfounded, and we feel this is a poor comparison. It is interesting to know that Martin's Cove is not of national significance. Ninety-seven percent of those who visit are those who are LDS themselves or who had families there and want to see it. The lands that have been conveyed to Native Americans in the past are also lands that are not of national significance. The pattern is consistent with what we are doing at Martin's Cove. I do not think some people realize that religiously significant lands have already been obtained by American Indian tribes through Federal legislation. For example, Public Law 98-408, Public Law 104-303, Public Law 98-620, and Public Law 91-550 were all conveyed to American Indian tribes. So I do not think this issue that has been brought up by some has much significance to it. I feel this legislation we are working on is very significant.”