"I appreciate that information because I think mapping and understanding what is there is absolutely critically important in terms of knowing where we go from here."
"Land fractionation is the result of the policies implemented by the Federal Government for American Indians during what we refer to as the Allotment Period."
"I appreciate that."
"Giving tribes more control and sovereignty over the lands will continue to be a priority of mine on this Committee."
"I am disappointed in BIA's absence, as their involvement in these discussions is critical to finding workable solutions."
"I am proud of the fact that the Wounded Knee Memorial bill came out of this Committee, has gone to the House, and I am hoping that we can get that through."
"I think that could be something that could be helpful at funding future land purchases, so you don't have to come back to this body to be able to move more quickly and address a specific parcel."
"Congress formally ended and repudiated the failed policy of allotment with the Indian Reorganization Act in 1934, but the impacts are still felt today."
"I am also proud of the bill that we were able to pass out of this Subcommittee and the Committee addressing the Winnebago lands along the Missouri River."
"H.R. 6062, sponsored by my colleague, Mrs. Radewagen, would give the Secretary of the Interior the sole authority to approve amendments to the American Samoa Constitution."
"Your testimony reflects the fact that you receive them with warm embrace, but you do not want to suffer the economic impacts without the assistance of the United States."