This bill would officially recognize the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia, making them eligible for services and benefits provided to other federally recognized tribes, without the need for a reservation. It sets rules for the tribe's membership, governing documents, and leadership, and prohibits the tribe from conducting gambling activities.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill would officially recognize the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia, making them eligible for services and benefits provided to other federally recognized tribes, without the need for a reservation. It sets rules for the tribe's membership, governing documents, and leadership, and prohibits the tribe from conducting gambling activities.
Last updated: 12/29/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><b>Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia Federal Recognition Act</b></p> <p>This bill extends federal recognition to the Patawomeck Indian Tribe.</p> <p>Specifically, the bill makes the tribe and its members eligible for services and benefits provided to federally recognized tribes, without regard to the existence of a reservation for the tribe. The service area of the tribe is considered to be Stafford and King George Counties, Virginia.</p> <p>Next, the bill sets forth requirements for the tribe regarding its membership roll, governing documents, and governing body.</p> <p>Interior, upon the request of the tribe, may take certain land into trust for the benefit of the tribe.</p> <p>Further, the bill prohibits the tribe from conducting gaming activities.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Extends federal recognition to the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia
Allows the tribe and its members to access services and benefits provided to federally recognized tribes
Requires the tribe to meet certain standards for membership, governance, and land trust
Prohibits the tribe from operating any gambling or casino activities
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
This bill would positively impact the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia by granting them federal recognition and access to important services and programs. It would also affect local and state governments in Stafford and King George Counties, Virginia, where the tribe's service area is located. Overall, the bill aims to support the Patawomeck Tribe and strengthen its standing as a federally recognized Native American community.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Native Americans
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
5553, 119th Congress (2025). "CTE Student Mental Health and Wellness Act". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-5553
