H.R. 3255: Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act of 2025, aims to affirm the federal recognition of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians, a group in Michigan. The bill outlines several specific provisions regarding the tribe's legal status, eligibility for federal services, and their rights. Below is a breakdown of the key points of the bill:

Findings

• The Grand River Bands are made up of 19 bands of Indians who historically occupied areas in western Michigan.
• The tribe is composed of descendants from signatories of several historic treaties, including the Treaty of Chicago (1821), Treaty of Washington (1836), and Treaty of Detroit (1855).
• In 1994, other Ottawa tribes were recognized, raising the need for similar recognition for the Grand River Bands.
• Efforts for tribal recognition have historically stalled despite meeting legal requirements.
• Lawsuits and claims related to land have been part of the tribe's history concerning their rights and recognition.

Definitions

The bill defines terms such as "member," referring to individuals enrolled in the tribe, and "Secretary," meaning the Secretary of the Interior, who will oversee implementations related to the bill.

Federal Recognition

• The bill officially affirms the federal recognition of the Grand River Bands as a tribe.
• It states that all federal laws applicable to Indian tribes will apply to the Grand River Bands.

Federal Services and Benefits

• The tribe and its members are entitled to all federal services and benefits designated for Indian tribes without regard to whether they have a reservation or the members' residences in relation to reservations.
• The service area for delivery of these services includes specific counties in Michigan: Newaygo, Oceana, Kent, Muskegon, and Ottawa Counties.

Reaffirmation of Rights

The bill clarifies that none of its provisions diminish or alter existing rights or claims of the tribe or its members prior to the enactment of the bill.

Membership Roll

• The tribe must create and submit a membership roll consisting of names of members within 18 months of the bill being enacted.
• Membership criteria will be based on the tribe's governing documents.

Acquisition of Land

• The Secretary of the Interior is required to acquire land for the tribe within specified counties and accept land into trust if legally clear of claims or debts.
• Additional lands can also be acquired for the tribe, with the Secretary making decisions on such requests within 18 months.
• Any land taken into trust will be considered part of the tribe's reservation upon their request.

Impacts on Federal Law

All processes and rights tied to federal law regarding recognition and benefits for tribes will apply to the Grand River Bands, allowing them access to federal support and resources aimed at tribal development and services.

Relevant Companies

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