Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act

# Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act Summary This bill would transfer approximately 1,083 acres of land in Washington state into federal trust on behalf of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, making it part of the tribe's reservation. When land is placed in federal trust, it becomes legally owned by the federal government but managed for the tribe's benefit, giving the tribe greater control over the land's use and development. The bill includes a restriction prohibiting gambling operations on this transferred land. The legislation primarily affects the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and potentially the local Washington communities where the land is located.

The bill aims to restore tribal lands, which is part of a broader federal policy of supporting Native American sovereignty and economic development, though the gambling prohibition suggests this is focused on conservation or non-commercial uses rather than casino development. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) in the 119th Congress.