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Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe Recognition Act
12/30/2022, 9:29 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3649
The Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe is a small Native American tribe located in California near Mono Lake. The tribe has a long history and cultural heritage that dates back centuries. Despite their historical significance, the tribe has not been officially recognized by the federal government.
If passed, the bill would grant the Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe access to certain benefits and resources that are available to federally recognized tribes. This could include funding for healthcare, education, and economic development programs, as well as the ability to participate in government-to-government consultations with federal agencies. Supporters of the bill argue that recognizing the Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe is an important step towards acknowledging and preserving the cultural heritage of Native American tribes in the United States. They believe that federal recognition will help the tribe protect their land, traditions, and way of life for future generations. Opponents of the bill may argue that granting federal recognition to the Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe could set a precedent for other unrecognized tribes to seek similar status, potentially leading to increased competition for limited resources and funding. Overall, the Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe Recognition Act is a significant piece of legislation that has the potential to have a lasting impact on the Mono Lake Kutzadikaa Tribe and their community. It is currently being debated in Congress, and its outcome will be closely watched by those interested in Native American rights and tribal sovereignty.
Congressional Summary of HR 3649
Mono Lake Kutzadikaᵃ Tribe Recognition Act
This bill extends federal recognition to the Mono Lake Kutzadikaᵃ Tribe.
The bill makes the tribe and its members eligible for services and benefits provided to federally recognized tribes and their members, without regard to the existence of a reservation or the location of the residence of any member. The service area of the tribe is considered to be Mono and Inyo counties, California.
In addition, the bill grants the tribe hunting and fishing rights on all federal lands within its aboriginal land area.
Further, the tribe must submit a membership roll to the Department of the Interior as a condition of receiving recognition, services, and benefits. The tribe must maintain the membership roll.
Interior, upon the request of the tribe, must take into trust certain land in Mono County, California, for the benefit of the tribe.

