Recognizes the Natchitoches Tribe of Louisiana as an Indian tribe of the state
Impact
The resolution has implications for state laws as it aims to motivate both state and federal authorities to acknowledge the Natchitoches Tribe in their governance and policy-making. It calls upon Congress and the Bureau of Indian Affairs to take appropriate steps towards the formal recognition of the tribe at the national level. This could potentially enhance the tribe's eligibility for various federal assistance programs and resources that support cultural preservation and economic development, thereby improving the overall quality of life for its members.
Summary
House Resolution 227 recognizes the Natchitoches Tribe of Louisiana as an official Indian tribe of the state. This resolution aims to support the tribal aspirations of the Natchitoches and ensure their cultural heritage is preserved. The bill outlines the historical context surrounding indigenous tribes in Louisiana, particularly emphasizing the impacts of the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and the subsequent displacement of tribes, including the Natchitoches. By acknowledging the tribe's existence and history, this resolution seeks to affirm the rights and identity of the Natchitoches people within the state.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR227 appears to be supportive, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to honor and validate the histories of indigenous peoples in the United States. There are advocates who view this resolution as a step towards rectifying historical injustices and empowering tribes within Louisiana. In contrast, there may be critics who argue against the need for such recognition or question the prioritization of such measures in state policy amidst other pressing issues.
Contention
While the resolution itself may not face significant opposition, it opens up discussions about the historical treatment of Native American tribes overall, which can be contentious. Recognizing the Natchitoches Tribe may bring to the forefront debates about tribal rights, state representation, and the entitlements of indigenous groups in contemporary society. The call for federal action underscores the ongoing complexities faced by tribes in navigating recognition and the associated benefits that accompany such status.
Formally recognizes, and requests the Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Louisiana congressional delegation to take appropriate action to formally recognize the Louisiana Precinct of the Southern Band of the Cherokee Nation of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma as an American Indian tribe.
Provides relative to supplemental pay for tribal officers of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana and recognizes certain tribes as Indian Tribes of the state (RE +$42,000 GF EX See Note)
Requests the Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the La. congressional delegation to take appropriate action to formally recognize the La. Precinct of the Southern Band of the Cherokee Nation of Webbers Falls, Oklahoma as an American Indian tribe.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.