Strickland, Cantwell Bill Supports Chehalis Tribe's Job Creation Efforts

Press Release

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland's (WA-10) joint legislation with Senator Maria Cantwell to support the Chehalis Tribe in their economic development opportunities advanced out of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs to the Senate floor. Congresswoman Strickland introduced the bill in the House with Representatives Derek Kilmer and Jaime Herrera Beutler. This bill would authorize leases of up to 99 years for lands held in trust for the Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation. Senator Maria Cantwell introduced the companion bill in the Senate.

"This critical legislation will allow the Chehalis Tribe to engage in leases for a much longer period of time, creating more jobs and bolstering economic development," said Strickland. "I am proud to stand with the Chehalis and members of the Washington delegation as we urge both the House and Senate to swiftly pass this bill and extend Tribal land rights for generations to come."

This bill would amend the Long-Term Leasing Act of 1955, which prohibits tribes from leasing out their land for more than 25 years. Amending this provision would allow the Chehalis Tribe to lease land for up to 99 years, alleviating financial hardship.

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