Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia Federal Recognition Act

# Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia Federal Recognition Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would grant federal recognition to the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia. Federal recognition is an official status from the U.S. government that acknowledges a Native American group as a legitimate Indian tribe. Currently, the Nottoway are recognized by the state of Virginia but not by the federal government.

If passed, this bill would extend federal protections, services, and treaty rights to the tribe. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily affect members of the Nottoway Indian Tribe, who would gain access to federal benefits and services reserved for federally recognized tribes, including healthcare, education, housing assistance, and economic development programs. It would also impact the federal government, which would assume certain responsibilities toward the tribe. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (HR 5327) remains in committee and has not advanced to a vote in the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Jennifer L. McClellan (D-Virginia) but has not yet been acted upon.