Federal bill would transfer 72 acres in Washington to Quinault Indian Nation trust

What does this do?

HR 2389 would transfer approximately 72 acres of U.S. Forest Service land in Washington State to the Department of the Interior, which would hold it in trust for the Quinault Indian Nation. The parcel, identified as Allotment 1157, would become part of the Quinault Indian Reservation. Before the transfer, the government must disclose any hazardous materials found on the land. Gambling and casino operations would be prohibited on the parcel under federal gaming law.

Who does it affect?

The Quinault Indian Nation, a federally recognized tribe in Washington State, is the primary party affected. The U.S. Forest Service, the Department of the Interior, and local and state governments in Washington are also directly affected.

Why does it matter?

Trust land is generally not subject to state or local taxes or zoning rules, which alters the regulatory and tax relationship between the parcel and surrounding local and state governments. The bill preserves existing Quinault Indian Nation rights under the Treaty of Olympia, signed in 1855 and 1856, and does not modify or remove them.

Where does it stand?