H.R. 4463Passed one chamberFamily & community
Bill would let Catawba Tribe set its own membership rules
Data as of July 12, 2026
HR 4463 removes the 1993 federal requirement that new Catawba tribal members prove direct descent and political ties.35-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill amends the 1993 law that settled the Catawba Indian Tribe's land claims dispute. It deletes the requirement that future members must be direct descendants of someone on the tribe's original base membership roll and maintain an ongoing political relationship with the tribe.
Who does it affect?
The Catawba Indian Tribe of South Carolina and its governance over membership decisions; also individuals seeking future membership who do not meet the current descendancy requirement.
Why does it matter?
Removing the federal standard would give the tribe more control over its own membership criteria, which could affect who is officially recognized as a member and who gains access to tribal citizenship rights, benefits, and services.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate — You are here
- President's desk
Right now: it passed the House and now goes to the Senate. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
To amend the Catawba Indian Tribe of South Carolina Land Claims Settlement Act of 1993.
- Introduced:
- July 16, 2025
- Latest action:
- June 3, 2026
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Indian Affairs.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.