PEMBROKE
A bill that would bring millions of dollars in federal aid to the Lumbee tribe has made its way to the Senate.
Sen. Kay Hagan and Sen. Richard Burr submitted legislation Thursday that would grant the tribe full federal recognition, The Fayetteville Observer reported.
"This bill will give the Lumbee tribe federal recognition, which is long overdue," Hagan stated in a news release. "I am pushing for this bill to be promptly considered in the Senate so that thousands of Lumbees will finally get the credit they deserve."
David Ward, the press secretary for Burr, said one of the senator's priorities since he took office has been to make sure the Lumbees receive the benefits that are available to other federally recognized tribes.
"We are hopeful that, along with Sen. Hagan, we will be able to provide the Lumbees with full recognition and all the benefits and programs they are eligible to receive," he said.
Tribal Chairman Jimmy Goins said the tribe is thankful for Burr and Hagan introducing the bill.
"I really would like to see it move in the Senate and a vote taken," Goins said in a statement. "The Lumbee have been here so many times before, and I hope that this Republican and Democrat can finally move this bill through the Senate. The tribe has done all it can, and now it rests with our senators. We are looking to them not only for guidance and direction, but for final passage."
In June, the House passed the Lumbee Recognition bill. The Senate bill will be referred to the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The bill should be voted out of committee in mid-October, said an aide in Burr's office. The committee will not hold a hearing on the bill.
No date has been announced for the Senate to take up the bill.
In June 2007, a similar bill passed the House. However, Congress adjourned before the Senate could take action on that bill.
Lawmakers and tribal officials plan to meet with those who oppose federal recognition of the Lumbees and with new Senate members who are not familiar with the Lumbees' struggle.
The Lumbee tribe was recognized by Congress in 1956 but did not receive benefits given to other federally recognized tribes. Language in the 1956 bill prevents the Lumbees from applying for federal acknowledgement through the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The tribe has made numerous attempts over the years through legislation.
Federal recognition would provide more than $700 million in aid over five years for education, medical care, child welfare, community development and other programs.
There are 50,000 Lumbees, with a majority living in Robeson and surrounding counties.
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