Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act

Bill 115 HR 1306, also known as the Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to address the longstanding issue of tribal recognition for the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians in the state of Oregon.

The bill seeks to amend the Coquille Restoration Act to provide federal recognition for these two tribes, which have historically been denied recognition despite meeting the criteria set forth by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This recognition would grant the tribes access to federal resources and services that are available to other federally recognized tribes, such as healthcare, education, and economic development opportunities.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the transfer of certain federal lands to the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians for the purpose of tribal self-governance and economic development. This transfer of lands would allow the tribes to use the resources on these lands for the benefit of their communities. Overall, the Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act aims to correct past injustices and provide much-needed support to the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians. By granting federal recognition and transferring lands to these tribes, the bill seeks to promote tribal self-determination and economic prosperity in Western Oregon.