S. 3383In markupFamily & community
Bill would let tribes approve their own land rights-of-way
Data as of July 16, 2026
Tribes could gain authority to approve land rights-of-way and long-term leases without case-by-case federal sign-off.35-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill expands which tribes fall under a 1955 leasing law and removes some outdated time limits on tribal land leases. It also lets tribes write their own rules for approving rights-of-way across tribal trust land, which the Secretary of the Interior could approve, ending case-by-case federal review.
Who does it affect?
Native American tribes seeking more control over land-use and development decisions, along with companies or governments building roads, utilities, or pipelines across tribal land.
Why does it matter?
The change could speed up development and expand tribal self-governance while reducing the federal government's direct role in approving individual projects, though the Secretary retains power to intervene, enforce, or cancel rights-of-way if tribal rules are violated.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee — You are here
- Senate vote
- House
- President's desk
Right now: a Senate committee is reviewing it. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the President.
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Official title
Unlocking Native Lands and Opportunities for Commerce and Key Economic Developments Act of 2025
- Introduced:
- December 8, 2025
- Latest action:
- December 17, 2025
Committee on Indian Affairs. Ordered to be reported without amendment favorably.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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