Us Congress Senate Bill SB1889

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/8/23
• Refer: 6/8/23
• Report Pass: 12/14/23

Caption

Unrecognized Southeast Alaska Native Communities Recognition and Compensation Act

Impact

If passed, SB1889 would significantly alter the legal landscape for Alaska Native communities by enabling the designated communities to gain access to land and resources under the ANCSA framework. The bill provides for the conveyance of specific federal lands totaling around 23,040 acres to each Urban Corporation, which could empower these communities economically and socially. Such improvements in land access may promote local development and bolster community governance through structured corporate entities designed to serve the shared interests of the inhabitants.

Summary

SB1889, titled the 'Unrecognized Southeast Alaska Native Communities Recognition and Compensation Act,' seeks to provide formal recognition and settlement of land claims for certain Alaska Native communities, specifically Haines, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Tenakee, and Wrangell. The bill authorizes the establishment of Urban Corporations for these communities, allowing them to organize under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and become eligible to receive settlement lands previously omitted from such eligibility. This legislative move aims to address the historical oversight regarding the exclusion of these communities in federal recognition and land settlement processes.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards SB1889 has generally been positive among the affected communities and their advocates, who view it as a crucial step toward rectifying historical injustices. Supporters highlight that recognition and settlement would enable greater self-determination and sustainable development for these communities. However, there are concerns surrounding the impacts on existing regional governance structures and potential frictions between new Urban Corporations and established entities, raising questions about land management and rights distribution.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding the bill center around the implications of forming Urban Corporations and the associated management of newly conveyed lands. Opponents posit that there needs to be careful consideration of existing rights and the potential for conflicts with established Native Corporations. Furthermore, the bill outlines conditional uses of the land, including public access for recreational purposes, which might lead to tensions between preservation and development efforts. The balance of these competing interests will be critical in the debates surrounding the bill's passage and implementation.