H.R. 5144 Introduced Native Americans

Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe of Southampton County, Virginia, Federal Recognition Act

To extend Federal recognition to the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe of Southampton County, Virginia, and for other purposes.

  1. Introduced
  2. Committee
  3. Passed House
  4. Passed Senate
  5. To President
  6. Became law
Sponsor Rep. Kiggans, Jennifer A. [R-VA-2] Introduced September 4, 2025 Cosponsors 4 (1 D, 3 R) Latest action September 4, 2025

Summary

Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe of Southampton County, Virginia, Federal Recognition Act
This bill extends federal recognition to the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe of Southampton County, Virginia.
Specifically, the bill makes the tribe and its members eligible for services and benefits provided to federally recognized tribes, without regard to the existence of a reservation for the tribe. The delivery area for services and benefits shall be determined in coordination and consultation with the Department of the Interior.
Next, the bill sets forth requirements for the tribe regarding its membership roll, governing documents, and governing body.
Upon request of the tribe, Interior must take into trust any land held in fee by the tribe that was acquired on or before January 1, 2007, if such lands are located within the boundaries of Southampton County, Virginia. Land taken into trust shall be considered part of the tribe's reservation.
Further, the bill prohibits the tribe from conducting gaming activities.

Summary by the Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress.

Congress.gov

Actions

  1. Sep 4, 2025 Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
  2. Sep 4, 2025 Introduced in House

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