[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 106 (Friday, July 29, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1685]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 INTRODUCTION OF THE CHEYENNE RIVER SIOUX TRIBE EQUITABLE COMPENSATION 
                                  ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. STEPHANIE HERSETH

                            of south dakota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 28, 2005

  Ms. HERSETH. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to introduce the Cheyenne 
River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act of 2005.
  The Act will help to right a historic wrong that occurred during the 
construction of the Oahe dam and reservoir, depriving the Cheyenne 
River Sioux Tribe of some of their best lands and failing to provide 
adequate compensation.
  Recognizing these past wrongs, Congress moved to compensate the tribe 
in 2000 by establishing a trust fund. While these actions were 
commendable, they left one important group behind--tribal members that 
lost privately owned lands. This act would correct that omission and 
allow the tribe to distribute funds to individuals who are currently 
prohibited from receiving them.
  The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Act would 
provide just compensation for the taking of lands over 50 years ago. I 
urge its swift consideration and passage.

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