Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee |
HJM 4020
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning federal recognition of the Steilacoom tribe.
Sponsors: Representatives Muri, Ryu and Kilduff.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/31/18
Staff: Travis Yonker (786-7383).
Background:
The Steilacoom are a Native American tribe that are not recognized by the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Traditionally located in the area southwest of what is now Tacoma, Washington, the Steilacoom tribe was one of the nine tribes with delegates that participated in the signing of the Medicine Creek Treaty of 1854, which granted:
the United States Government certain land in exchange for the establishment of three reservations;
cash payments over a period of years; and
recognition of fishing and hunting rights.
In 1994 the United States Congress enacted Public Law 103-454, which establishes three ways through which a Native American group may become federally recognized:
an act of Congress;
the BIA administrative process; or
a decision of a United States court.
Summary of Bill:
The United States government is requested to acknowledge the Steilacoom tribe, thereby conferring upon the members of the tribe the same rights, recognition, and privileges as other tribes recognized by the U.S. Government.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.