Bill > S719

This bill amends the Tribal Forest Protection Act of 2004 to expand and clarify provisions related to Indian forest lands and rangeland management. The bill broadens the definition of "Indian forest land or rangeland" to include lands held in trust by the United States for Indian tribes, lands with vegetation cover, lands capable of vegetation restoration, and lands held by Alaska Native Corporations. It expands the purpose of the act to not only protect Indian forest lands but also to restore them and to carry out protection or restoration projects on Federal lands. The bill modifies the criteria for determining which lands can be involved in forest management projects, now emphasizing special geographic, historical, or cultural significance to Indian tribes. Additionally, the bill authorizes $15 million in appropriations for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031 to support these expanded forest management and protection efforts. The changes aim to provide more flexibility and resources for Indian tribes to manage and restore forest lands, recognizing their important cultural and ecological role.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/719/all-info