I believe it is appropriate for them to finally receive the federal recognition that has been denied for far too long.

the rigid nature of the administrative recognition process has been a source of delay, frustration and a lingering sense of unfairness.

I respectfully ask the Committee to work with me to bring this legislation to the Senate floor.

The federal recognition process has been fraught with challenges that need to be addressed.

For these reasons, I strongly believe that recognition for these six Virginia tribes is justified based on principles of dignity and fairness.

I would like to emphasize my personal belief that this particular situation with respect to Virginia is historically unique.

I am a sponsor of the Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2011.

However, the administrative process which is the specific topic of your hearing today, is subject to unreasonable delays, lacks clear guidance and is expensive.

Support for these six Virginia tribes has been voiced many times during the 15 years since they began seeking federal recognition.

It is a fact that Virginia in the past had race laws which regulated the activity of Virginia Indians.

Yet during that visit, one could clearly see the promise of a different future.