[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 111 (Friday, August 7, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1581]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        INTRODUCTION OF INDIAN TRUST FUND JUDICIAL PROCEDURE ACT

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                           HON. GEORGE MILLER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, August 6, 1998

  Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to introduce, by 
request, the Indian Trust Fund Judicial Procedure Act on behalf of the 
Intertribal Monitoring Association (ITMA). Earlier this session I 
introduced legislation to address the Indian trust fund problems as 
proposed by the Administration.
  The legislation I am introducing today would set up a temporary court 
to address claims against the United States regarding tribal trust 
funds. A Special Master would be appointed and staffed to get as much 
information as possible together on all trust fund accounts and 
activity in order to come up with a formula to then apply to each 
account for restitution.
  The problems with the Indian trust fund accounts is one I have worked 
on for much of my time in Congress. It it complex and controversial. I 
believe that this legislative approach by the ITMA and its member 
Indian tribes will continue the debate begun with the Administration's 
approach on how to come to a resolution regarding the Indian trust fund 
accounts held by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

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