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A bill to amend the Siletz Reservation Act to address the hunting, fishing, trapping, and animal gathering activities of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and for other purposes.
12/15/2023, 4:07 PM
Summary of Bill S 1286
The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians have historically engaged in these traditional activities as part of their cultural heritage and sustenance. However, there have been challenges and conflicts in recent years regarding the regulation and management of these activities on their reservation land.
The proposed amendments in Bill 118 s 1286 seek to clarify and enhance the rights and regulations surrounding hunting, fishing, trapping, and animal gathering for the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. This includes provisions for sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and cooperation with state and federal authorities. Overall, the bill aims to support the cultural traditions and livelihoods of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians while also ensuring the responsible management and conservation of natural resources. It is an important piece of legislation that addresses the unique needs and rights of indigenous communities in the United States.
Congressional Summary of S 1286
This bill provides a process by which the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and Oregon may negotiate to amend or replace the existing agreement defining the tribe's hunting, fishing, trapping, and animal gathering rights.
The current agreement, which was made effective by a May 2, 1980, consent decree by the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, serves as the exclusive and final determination of the tribe's hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering rights. This bill instead allows an April 22, 1980, agreement between the United States, Oregon, and the tribe (known as the Siletz Agreement) to define the tribe's rights until and unless it is amended or replaced upon mutual agreement of the tribe and Oregon (with specified limitations regarding a new agreement).
The bill allows the tribe and Oregon to return to the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon to request the modification or termination of the May 2, 1980, consent decree.

