Gerry Studds: “Let me just say that I concur with this legislation which is substantially the same as the legislation we passed in the…”

“Let me just say that I concur with this legislation which is substantially the same as the legislation we passed in the previous Congress, and it is without controversy. It is even a good thing. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the legislation. The gentleman from Alaska has long been a good friend of his Alaska Native constituents and this bill continues that tradition. This legislation was the subject of a hearing, reported by the committee, and passed by the House in the previous Congress. The eight diverse sections in the bill were largely developed in the course of negotiations between the Alaska Federation of Natives, the State of Alaska, and the Department of the Interior. This process was successful in fostering consensus and minimizing controversy. I would note, Mr. Speaker, that this bill also reflects a tradition of bipartisan concern and cooperation within the committee when dealing with issues affecting Alaska Natives. I urge support for the legislation.”