On the recordSeptember 28, 2016
Let me be clear. We may need a formal rulemaking process, but this amendment today doesn't block any pending project or permit process. I do think it is appropriate, when questions are raised about inadequate consultation, that we do something here. It is my hope that this report will guide Congress within a year, when we consider the next WRDA bill, so that the chairman, the ranking member, and the underlying bill, itself, will make clear that their support for taking up WRDA bills on a regular 2-year cycle will include tribal consultation. Again, these consultations look good on paper, but my amendment wants to formalize the consultation process and get a report. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. DeFAZIO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition, although I am not in opposition. The Acting CHAIR. Without objection, the gentleman from Oregon is recognized for 5 minutes. There was no objection. Mr. DeFAZIO. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I congratulate my good friend, the gentlewoman from Wisconsin, for bringing forward this important amendment. I think the key thing is what she said at the end, which is that the process may look good on paper but that that is not good enough when we are dealing with sovereign nations. I have restored a tribe in my district and have worked a lot on tribal issues in my 28 years on the Natural Resources Committee.…
