United States Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, both of California, have introduced a trio of bipartisan bills to empower Tribal management of over 2,000 acres of land in California.
The legislation aims to transfer federal lands to the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, the Pit River Tribe, and the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians.
“For too long, senseless conflict and bureaucratic barriers have kept California Tribes from managing their ancestral lands,” Padilla said. He emphasized the federal government’s responsibility to correct historical injustices and support Tribes in preserving their traditions and environment.
“I’m proud to join Senator Padilla’s efforts to help three of California’s tribes restore their ancestral homelands,” Schiff said. He highlighted the importance of these bills in promoting Tribal sovereignty and correcting historic wrongs.
The Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation Land Exchange Act proposes transferring 1,475 acres from the U.S. Forest Service to the Tribe. In return, the Tribe would give 1,460 acres of their land to the Forest Service. Congressman Jay Obernolte of California is championing the bill in the House.
“After eight years of dialogue with the U.S. Forest Service, the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is pursuing a legislative path to expedite and secure the restoration of Yuhaaviatam ancestral lands,” said Chairwoman Lynn R. Valbuena of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation.
“For countless generations, the Pit River people have cared for and lived in relationship with these lands,” said Yatch Bamford, Chairman of the Pit River Nation. He expressed gratitude for Padilla’s leadership in righting historical wrongs.
The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Land Transfer Act seeks to place 80 acres of Bureau of Land Management land into trust for the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians. Congressman Tom McClintock of California is supporting the effort in the House.
The bills would also put 185 acres of fee land owned by the Tribe into trust, allowing them to expand housing and manage fire risks.
Senator Padilla has been a strong advocate for restoring Tribal lands, with previous successes in supporting the Jamul Indian Village and the Lytton Rancheria of California. His efforts align with laws signed by President Biden in 2023 to respect Tribal sovereignty and stewardship.
