Bill would swap Cape Fox land selection to settle 1971 Alaska claim

What does this do?

This bill finalizes a 1971 land claim by excusing Cape Fox Village Corporation from selecting about 185 acres near Saxman, Alaska. Instead, it allows Cape Fox to select about 180 acres elsewhere in Tongass National Forest, with surface rights going to Cape Fox and subsurface mineral rights going to Sealaska Corporation. A public access route through the land must be preserved.

Who does it affect?

Cape Fox Village Corporation, Sealaska Corporation, and residents of Saxman, Alaska are directly affected; the U.S. Forest Service and the public are also involved.

Why does it matter?

The swap resolves decades-old land ownership questions tied to the 1971 Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act and finalizes both corporations' remaining land entitlements. It also preserves public access to national forest land after the transfer.

Where does it stand?