H.R. 7954: Don Young Doug LaMalfa Indian Buffalo Management Act

This bill, known as the Don Young Doug LaMalfa Indian Buffalo Management Act, aims to support Tribal governments in managing buffalo and their habitats, as well as reestablishing buffalo on Indian land. Here is a summary of the key provisions:

Purpose of the Bill

The primary goals of the bill include:

• Strengthening the government-to-government relationship between Tribal Governments and the United States regarding buffalo management.
• Enhancing the capacity of Tribes and Tribal organizations to manage buffalo and their habitats.
• Protecting, conserving, and increasing buffalo populations for cultural, subsistence, and economic reasons.
• Encouraging the development and use of buffalo and their habitat in ways that maximize benefits for Tribes.
• Supporting the development of buffalo herds to satisfy Tribal needs.
• Ensuring Tribal involvement in decision-making processes at various governmental levels.

Definitions

The bill defines key terms such as:

• Buffalo: Refers to the American bison, specifically the subspecies Bison bison bison.
• Buffalo habitat: Indian land designated for buffalo management.
• Indian Tribe: As defined in relevant federal laws.
• Tribal organization: Legally recognized organizations with experience in buffalo management.

Buffalo Resource Management

The bill mandates the Secretary of the Interior to:

• Collaborate with Tribes to build their management capacity.
• Support the conservation and enhancement of buffalo populations owned by Tribes.
• Promote appropriate uses of buffalo and their habitats.
• Facilitate Tribes’ involvement in various decision-making fora regarding buffalo issues.

Contracts and Grants

The Secretary is authorized to enter into:

• Contracts and agreements with Tribes for buffalo restoration and management.
• Grants to support various activities linked to buffalo.

Consultation and Coordination

Within one year of the bill’s enactment, the Secretary must:

• Consult with Tribes on Department initiatives impacting buffalo and their habitats.
• Develop policies that align with Tribal goals regarding buffalo management.

Protection of Information

The bill includes provisions to protect culturally sensitive information provided by Tribes, ensuring it is not disclosed without permission.

Disposal of Surplus Buffalo

The Secretary may work with Tribes to manage surplus buffalo on Federal lands, including transporting them to Indian land, with the possibility of waiving fees associated with this process.

Treaty Rights

It is stated that nothing in this bill will affect the treaty rights of any Indian Tribe.

Duration of the Act

The provisions of this Act will remain in effect for a period of seven years after its enactment.

Relevant Companies

None found