Recognizes the Avoyel-Taensa Tribe of Louisiana for purposes of granting formal recognition.
Impact
By recognizing the Avoyel-Taensa Tribe, SCR76 intends to support the tribe's aspirations and improve their economic and social conditions. This act serves not only to preserve their cultural identity but also to seek federal acknowledgment from the U.S. Congress and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Such recognition would be a critical step towards ensuring that the tribe can participate in programs and opportunities available to other federally recognized tribes, potentially leading to enhanced funding and resources necessary for community development.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 76 seeks to formally recognize the Avoyel-Taensa Tribe of Louisiana as a legitimate Indian tribe within the state. The resolution acknowledges the historical presence of the tribe in Avoyelles Parish and highlights the importance of their cultural heritage and ongoing existence since early settlements. This formal recognition aims to affirm the rights of the Avoyel-Taensa Tribe, paralleling the rights of other recognized tribes in the United States.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SCR76 appears to be supportive, as it acknowledges the historical injustices faced by tribes not yet recognized at the federal level. Proponents argue that formal recognition would validate the tribe's identity and culture and enable them to advocate more effectively for their rights and needs. The sentiment reflects a growing awareness and respect for the cultural heritage of indigenous peoples in Louisiana, often highlighted in legislative discussions.
Contention
While the resolution primarily garners support, there could be issues surrounding the acknowledgment of historical claims and competing interests among various tribes in Louisiana. Notably, some discussions could arise regarding the allocation of funds and resources once recognition is granted, leading to potential contention over tribal sovereignty and governance. However, the overall focus of SCR76 is on unity and recognition rather than division, emphasizing the importance of establishing formal ties to assist in the advancement of the Avoyel-Taensa Tribe.
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.
Reaffirms recognition of the Bayou Lafourche Band of Biloxi-Chitimacha Confederation of Muskogees, the Grand Caillou/Dulac Band of Biloxi-Chitimacha-Choctaw, the Jean Charles Choctaw Nation, and the Pointe-au-Chien 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.