LEGISLATION/H.R. 226

Eastern Band of Cherokee Historic Lands Reacquisition Act

119-HR-226119th CongressIntroduced Jan 7, 2025Native Americans

Market Probability

No market

Status

Introduced

Committee

Floor Vote

Other Chamber

Signed

Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.

Sponsor

Rep. Fleischmann, Charles J. "Chuck" [R-TN-3](R-TN-3)

Summary

Eastern Band of Cherokee Historic Lands Reacquisition Act

This bill takes specified lands and easements in Monroe County, Tennessee, into trust for the use and benefit of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. These lands include the Sequoyah Museum, the Chota Memorial, the Tanasi Memorial, and land to provide support for these properties and cultural programs.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) maintains its right to carry out river control and development on these lands, including temporarily and intermittently flooding certain lands. The bill specifies the structures that may be constructed with the TVA's written consent on certain lands subject to flooding. Additionally, the TVA must be compensated for lost hydropower capacity from future development of these lands.

Further, the bill specifies that the United States is not liable for loss or damage resulting from certain activities, such as the permanent flooding of adjacent lands.

In addition, the bill outlines the TVA's continuing responsibilities, including those related to environmental remediation.

Finally, the bill prohibits gaming on these lands.

Subjects

Alternative and renewable resourcesElectric power generation and transmissionFloods and storm protectionHistoric sites and heritage areasHistorical and cultural resourcesIndian lands and resources rightsLakes and riversLand transfersLand use and conservationMonuments and memorialsMuseums, exhibitions, cultural centersParks, recreation areas, trailsTennesseeWater storageWater use and supply