President Barack Obama signed legislation into law on Friday that U.S. Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV) introduced to address tribal housing shortages, preserve cultural resources and promote economic development in Nevada.
The Nevada Native Nations Land Act, H.R. 2733, which was unanimously approved by the Senate, allows public land for six different tribes throughout Nevada to be held in trust.
The measure aims to address “checkerboard” land ownership issues, housing and infrastructure needs on reservations, management of natural resources, preservation of cultural resources, and promote economic development on tribal lands around the state.
“Specifically, this bill will transfer more than 70,000 acres of Nevada public lands back into tribal control – empowering those tribal governments to control their land use destinies,” Amoedi said. “By carefully balancing the unique needs of our Nevada tribal nations with those of local ranchers, land owners and businesses, this legislation will allow Nevadans to chart brighter futures for their communities, while preserving their cultural heritage and traditions. Congratulations to Nevada’s original natives, you have been patient to say the least, and your resilience has paid off.”
Amoedi thanked U.S. Sens. Harry Reid (D-NV) and Dean Heller (R-NV) for their bipartisan work on the measure, as well as U.S. Reps. Joe Heck (R-NV) and Cresent Hardy (R-NV).
“Our delegation’s willingness to work together to get things done in Washington has allowed Nevada to enjoy unique success in the 113th and 114th Congresses — compared to other western states — in terms of passing lands bills,” Amoedi said.