Political Quotes

“I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the case for adding a small amount of land to the Hoh Reservation is compelling. Because the tribe's reservation receives about 140 inches of rain per year and is located within a tsunami zone, the tribe must expand its eastern border inland from the coast so they can construct safe housing and other facilities outside of the tsunami zone. To accomplish this, H.R. 1061 places in trust several tracts of land for the tribe, most of which are currently owned by the tribe. These additions to the reservation are separated from the existing reservation by a 37-acre parcel of Federal land that is part of the Olympic National Park. H.R. 1061 transfers ownership of this 37-acre parcel of Olympic National Park land to the tribe without consideration. This transfer creates a contiguous, intact reservation with full access across the reservation assured in the form of a road to Highway 101. This bill also sets an important and needed precedent by transferring these 37 acres without extorting either a land exchange or payment to the Federal Government. There are many instances when fairness and necessity justify the transfer of Federal lands to States, localities, tribes, or other American citizens. There are also instances when roads that are vital to park neighbors and park visitors should be repaired and rebuilt even though they may be located in otherwise protected areas.…”