Steve Pearce: “H.R. 5842 authored by myself ratifies a settlement agreement pending between the Isleta Pueblo of New Mexico, a…”

“H.R. 5842 authored by myself ratifies a settlement agreement pending between the Isleta Pueblo of New Mexico, a federally recognized tribe, and the United States. This settlement agreement is the result of many years of environmental damage to certain reservation lands by the United States Government. H.R. 5842 would establish a land restoration fund for the Pueblo to acquire, restore and improve the land and natural resources within the exterior boundaries of the reservation. Passage of this legislation settles all claims by the Pueblo pending in the United States Courts of Federal Claims. We understand that both the administration and the entire New Mexico delegation fully support this settlement and the corresponding legislation. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support the passage of my bill, H.R. 5842, the 'Pueblo of Isleta Settlement and Natural Resources Restoration Act of 2006.' While this bill is a settlement of claims against America by a tribal government, the result of this settlement will benefit the Pueblo, the State of New Mexico and all of America. By passing this bill we fulfill our responsibility for the trust and management of these tribal lands.”