Bill > S3478

This bill, the Indian Buffalo Management Act, aims to support Tribal governments in managing buffalo (defined as the subspecies *Bison bison bison*) and their habitats on Indian land, and in reestablishing buffalo populations. It acknowledges the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of buffalo to Native American Tribes, recognizing their desire to bring buffalo back for cultural, spiritual, and subsistence purposes, and for economic development. The Act establishes a government-to-government relationship between Tribal governments and the United States for buffalo management, and promotes the capacity of Tribes and their organizations to manage buffalo and their habitats. It authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, and award grants to Tribes and Tribal organizations for buffalo restoration and management programs, commercial activities related to buffalo, and the use of mobile meat processing facilities. The Secretary is also directed to provide technical assistance and consult with Tribes on initiatives affecting buffalo and their habitats, and to develop a policy for buffalo management on Indian land that aligns with Tribal goals and laws. The bill also allows for the transfer of surplus buffalo from Federal land to Indian land, with the possibility of waiving associated charges, and ensures that no information provided by Tribes is disclosed if identified as sensitive. Importantly, the Act explicitly states that it does not alter or diminish any treaty rights of Indian Tribes, and its authority will expire seven years after enactment.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3478/all-info