H.R. 5682: To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians, and for other purposes.

The bill titled "To take certain land in the State of California into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Band of Indians" seeks to officially transfer ownership of approximately 1,261 acres of land in Riverside County, California, to the Pechanga Band of Indians. This action would place the land into a trust managed by the United States government for the benefit of the Tribe. Below are the key components of the bill:

1. Transfer of Land

The bill specifies that the named land will be taken into trust for the benefit of the Pechanga Tribe, subject to any existing rights and conditions outlined in the legislation.

2. Administration of the Land

1. The land will become part of the Tribe's reservation.
2. It must be administered according to federal laws relating to land held in trust for Indian tribes.

3. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

The Tribe is required to notify specific committees and individuals about the termination of any existing MOU related to the land at least 45 days prior to the termination date. Additionally, the Tribe must report any violations or terminations of the MOU to these same parties, except in cases related to specific ecological reserve disestablishments.

4. Conditions for the Land

Upon the transfer of land into trust:

1. It will be subject to all valid existing rights and liens, including road easements and licenses.
2. The land must be maintained as open space.
3. Usage of the land is restricted to:
1. Activities that maintain it as open space.
2. Protection and preservation of archaeological, cultural, and wildlife resources present on the site.

5. Construction and Maintenance

While the land must remain open space, construction and maintenance of utilities or structures may proceed as long as they align with the land’s purpose of preservation and protection.

6. Prohibition on Gaming

Under this bill, the land can't be used for any type of gaming activities (class II or class III) as defined under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

7. Rights and Agreements

The bill makes it clear that the enactment will not change any pre-existing water rights or service agreements connected to the land.

8. Map Availability

A map showing the boundaries and specifics of the land in question will be available for public inspection at appropriate Bureau of Land Management offices.

9. Definitions

Key terms are defined within the bill to clarify the language and intent, including "covered land," "Tribe," "Secretary," and "MOU."

Relevant Companies

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